Maya Patel criticizes Cornell's handling of Chi Phi rape investigation

Cornell University student Maya Patel told campus police in March 2024 that she had information about an alleged rape that took place at the Chi Phi fraternity house, but she now says the university’s handling of the case has left her feeling “betrayed.” Patel said she provided a detailed timeline, witness names and text messages she believed would help investigators identify the perpetrator. She says the university’s response was slow, and that the information she shared was not acted on promptly.

The case comes as colleges across the country grapple with a surge in sexual assault complaints and criticism over how they investigate them. Cornell has faced scrutiny after a 2021 Title IX audit found gaps in its reporting procedures. Student groups have been pushing for more transparent processes and for the university to hold fraternities accountable. The alleged assault at Chi Phi, a campus fraternity, has drawn particular attention because of the organization’s history of disciplinary issues and its role in campus culture.

Patel told NBC News that after she reported the leads, she was told the investigation would continue, but she received no updates for weeks. When she finally learned that the university had referred the matter to the Ithaca police department, she was told the case was “under review” with no clear timeline. Cornell’s Office of Title IX responded that the university follows federal guidelines and that the investigation is ongoing. The Ithaca police have not commented publicly on the status of the case. Advocacy groups, including the campus chapter of RAINN, said the lack of communication fuels distrust among survivors and witnesses.

The investigation remains open, and both Cornell and local law enforcement say they will continue to gather evidence. Patel said she hopes her experience will prompt the university to improve its communication with students who come forward. Campus officials have pledged to review their protocols and to provide regular updates to those involved. The outcome could influence how Cornell and other universities handle similar cases in the future, potentially shaping policy changes under Title IX reforms.