Donald Trump Latest Live News: US President Donald Trump had a comment to make regarding the Cornell University sexual assault probe after New York Attorney General Letitia James was made a special prosecutor in the case.
US President Trump criticized the appointment of the special prosecutor, expressing his sympathy to “whoever she’s looking at” since he did not think that the accused “would get a fair shake.”
However, did the president really defend the so-called “Cornell 7”? It seems that things were more complicated than that. His remarks questioned the fairness of the prosecutor, rather than establishing the innocence of the seven men named in a civil lawsuit.
“Letitia James is a corrupt person,” Trump told reporters on the South Lawn en route to Alabama on Friday.
“I feel bad for whoever she’s looking at because they won’t get a fair shake,” he added.
What Happened at Cornell?
The case arose from a sexual assault that happened in the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. The complainant, Jane Doe, was a former Cornell University student, who claims to have been drugged and sexually assaulted by seven men.
The victim later filed a civil suit against seven men and Cornell University, among others. It should be noted that the claims are contested and none of the seven men have been criminally charged with anything.
Why Is the Case Back in the Spotlight?
However, the dispute has come up again following the lawsuit that Jane Doe filed in September 2026. Through the suit, there came up more evidence and claims about the issue and consequently the Tompkins County District Attorney, Matthew Van Houten, decided to reopen the criminal investigation. This is noteworthy as far as the chronology goes since the alleged incident took place in 2024, while the civil suit was filed in almost two years time.
What Happened to the Cornell 7?
Though no criminal charges were brought against them, the students still faced disciplinary measures at Cornell. Per CBS News, the university stated that two of the students were expelled, two were suspended for a minimum of two semesters, one student had already graduated and two students were found not responsible for any sexual misconduct. These disciplinary actions at the university are distinct from criminal responsibility. A disciplinary hearing or civil claim cannot establish criminal guilt.
Why Did Hochul Appoint Letitia James?
James was appointed as a special prosecutor by New York Governor Kathy Hochul due to some concerns raised regarding the conduct of the investigation. It was indicated that the office would investigate the case, collect evidence, interview witnesses and file the charges against the suspects based on the evidence collected. The decision thus alters the investigator of the case but not the charges filed against the suspects.
“I stand ready to lead a process guided by the facts and the law. In the coming months, my office will dutifully carry out the responsibilities the governor has conferred upon us in this executive order. We will review the facts, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and, if warranted, pursue prosecutions,” James told media on Friday.
What Did the ‘Cornell 7’ Tell Police?
- Four of the seven men acknowledged having sexual contact with Jane Doe but told investigators that the encounters were consensual.
- Other accused men denied engaging in sexual activity with Jane Doe during the incident.
- Diego Sarabia told investigators that Jane Doe allegedly made a comment suggesting group sexual activity was “normal in medieval times.”
- Matthew Ingalls said he approached Jane Doe about participating in a threesome involving himself and fraternity member Jonathan Newell.
- Jonathan Newell said he believed Ingalls had obtained Jane Doe’s consent before involving him. He also acknowledged using ketamine, marijuana and alcohol that night.
- Winston Lee told investigators that Jane Doe and others did not appear severely intoxicated and were not slurring their speech. He also acknowledged using ketamine.
- Gillio Lopes said he had consumed three beers and three mixed drinks but claimed he retained a clear memory of the evening. He said Jane Doe initiated sexual contact.
- Scott Kretzschmar denied engaging in sexual activity and said that when he entered the room, Jane Doe did not appear visibly intoxicated.
- Scott Norris said Jane Doe appeared “conversational” with the people in the room.
- The accounts provided by the men conflict with Jane Doe’s allegations, which is one reason the reopened investigation is examining the evidence and witness accounts further.
Why Is Trump Objecting?
The two individuals have had an extensive political and legal history, especially with regard to the prior investigations and litigations that involved Trump that were carried out by James.
Trump has thus asked whether she will be able to carry out a fair investigation into the Cornell case. The “fair shake” remark is Trump’s perception of James and not a judicial decision on the Cornell case.
Fact Check: Did Trump Defend Cornell 7?
To some extent, but it depends on the language used. In this context, Trump did make an attempt to defend the rights of the accused men to get fair treatment however, by claiming that he “defended the Cornell 7” it can be argued that he overstepped.
He provided no evidence proving their innocence and his statements did not bring any clarification about the allegations. The case remains under investigation at the moment and the most important thing is if the prosecutors manage to find enough evidence for criminal prosecution.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly reported allegations and official statements. Allegations are not proof of guilt, and the investigation remains ongoing.
