A ketamine overdose was reported at Cornell University’s Chi Phi fraternity house less than 24 hours before a woman allegedly suffered a drug-related gang rape there, according to details recorded during the university’s Title IX investigation.
The incident followed a party at the fraternity on Friday October 18, 2024. In the early hours of October 19, Cornell University Police were called to the house, where drugs were found and a drug-related arrest was made.
The person who overdosed was subsequently referred to Cornell’s Office of Student Conduct. The investigation document says the overdose occurred on, or around, the night of the party.
Jane Doe alleges that she arrived at the Chi Phi house several hours later, at about 11pm on Saturday, before she was allegedly given ketamine. The claims have not been proven.
The circumstances have raised further questions about Cornell’s response to allegations connected to the fraternity. University president Michael Kotlikoff has praised the institution’s sexual assault task force for bringing about “substantial changes in education, prevention, and support”.
Cornell has expelled two of the seven men accused in connection with the alleged gang rape.
A special prosecutor and New York Attorney General Letitia James are also examining the university’s response, alongside the criminal case.
