Cornell sexual assault case reopened as seven former students face court [VIDEO]

A criminal investigation into allegations of sexual assault involving a former Cornell University student has been reopened after a civil lawsuit named seven former students as defendants in connection with an alleged incident at the Chi Phi fraternity house in Ithaca in October 2024.

The woman, who was 20 at the time of the alleged incident, reported the matter to Cornell University police in November 2024. The allegations later became the subject of a university Title IX investigation, which resulted in disciplinary sanctions against some of the students involved, including expulsions and suspensions.

The seven men named as defendants in the civil action are Matthew Ingalls, Johnathan Newell, Winston Lee, Gillio Lopes, Diego Sarabia, Scott Norris and Scott Kretzschmar.

The lawsuit alleges that the woman was sexually assaulted by multiple individuals during an incident that allegedly lasted several hours at the fraternity house.

Some reports have also alleged that one of the accused students sent a message to a fraternity Snapchat group during the incident, allegedly inviting others to participate. Such allegations are part of the claims now being examined and have not been established in criminal court.

Cornell has disputed characterisations that the students involved were merely required to write essays as punishment. The university’s Title IX proceedings resulted in disciplinary measures that included expulsions and suspensions.

No criminal charges were filed when the allegations were initially reported.

However, the civil lawsuit has brought additional allegations and evidence into public view, prompting the Tompkins County District Attorney’s Office to reopen the criminal investigation.

The District Attorney has indicated that the case will be presented to a grand jury as prosecutors examine the allegations and available evidence.

As of September 30, 2026, no arrests or criminal charges had been announced against the seven men.

The development has renewed scrutiny of Cornell University’s handling of the original complaint and the broader response to allegations of sexual misconduct on university campuses.

The case has also generated significant public attention online, with social media users referring to the defendants collectively as the “Cornell 7.”

The civil lawsuit and criminal investigation remain separate processes. A civil complaint contains allegations by the plaintiff and does not, by itself, establish criminal or civil liability.

The allegations against all seven defendants remain unproven, and the defendants are entitled to due process as the criminal investigation and civil proceedings continue.