New York Attorney General Letitia James has appointed Jacqueline Kelly, a former federal prosecutor, to lead a criminal investigation into allegations of sexual assault at Cornell University. The incident, which is said to have occurred in October 2024, has prompted James to seek a thorough inquiry, aiming for a "fair and comprehensive criminal investigation" into the serious allegations surrounding the case.

Jacqueline Kelly, who is a Cornell alumna, previously served as the chief of the Civil Rights Unit in the Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Her experience includes involvement in high-profile cases, such as the investigation related to Sean "Diddy" Combs, which adds a significant layer of expertise to the inquiry into the Cornell incident. James emphasized the importance of a meticulous approach to ensure justice is served in this sensitive matter.S1S2

The appointment of Kelly comes as part of a broader effort by the New York Attorney General's office to address and investigate sexual assault allegations within educational institutions. This case at Cornell University is particularly notable given the increasing scrutiny on how universities handle such serious allegations, and it reflects a commitment to accountability and transparency in the legal process.S1S2