The law and politics of the Cornell gang rape investigation
Summary
This episode examines the lawsuit filed by a former Cornell student alleging she was drugged and raped at a fraternity house, highlighting the university’s alleged negligence and the "voluntary intoxication" loophole in New York criminal law. Civil rights lawyer Alexandra Brodsky explains how Title IX and state human rights laws apply to campus sexual assault, while State Senator Alessandro Biaggi urges listeners to pressure lawmakers to close the legislative gap. The discussion also addresses the role of campus police, the toxic culture within Greek life, and the tension between criminal p…
Topics discussed
Sponsor: NYC Campaign Finance Board and election info
Intro: Cornell lawsuit and content warning
Background: Jane Doe's allegations and DA's response
Guest introduction: Alexandra Brodsky
Police investigation and the 'consensual' claim
NY law loophole: Voluntary intoxication and consent
Criminal vs. Civil and University liability
Caller: Urging action on pending state legislation
Why Jane Doe is suing her own sorority
Greek life culture and statistics on campus violence
Caller: State Senator Biaggi on the intoxication bill
Role of campus police vs. municipal police
Separating school discipline from criminal law
Tension between policing and survivor support
Caller: Parent asks about Title IX relevance
Title IX, federal regs, and NY Human Rights Law
Closing remarks and guest thanks
Show promotion and outro
Sponsor: NYC Campaign Finance Board and WNYC
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