A Cornell University student has filed a civil lawsuit alleging that seven fraternity members drugged and sexually assaulted her during an hours-long attack at a Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. The case raises significant questions about accountability in campus sexual assault, as a local law enforcement investigation resulted in no criminal charges being filed. The complainant's attorney argues the civil lawsuit is now her last avenue for justice, whilst the accused individuals have largely been able to continue their lives unimpeded.

The alleged victim, then aged 20, claims she was given alcohol and ketamine before being repeatedly assaulted; one of the accused allegedly posted a derogatory message about her to the fraternity's Snapchat group. The Tompkins County District Attorney's investigation declined to bring criminal charges, which the complainant's attorney contends reflected inadequate investigation. Cornell University did take disciplinary action—expelling some of the accused and suspending others—though the lawsuit alleges they were permitted to mitigate their conduct by submitting essays. Nearly two years on, the complainant reports severe ongoing trauma including anxiety, depression and insomnia, and has withdrawn from her studies, whilst the accused have largely moved forward with their lives.