From ABC7 New York · · 1m 30s
Cornell Fraternity Member Challenges NY AG's Role
Cornell student pushes to remove NY AG as special prosecutor over bias claims.
In brief
Cornell student pushes to remove NY AG as special prosecutor over bias claims. A Cornell fraternity member accused in a sexual assault case seeks to remove New York Attorney General Letitia James from the investigation, arguing her social media post showed bias. Originally reported by ABC7 New York.
Cornell student seeks NY AG removal
A Cornell fraternity member accused in a gang rape case pushed to have New York Attorney General Letitia James removed as special prosecutor.
“I will not comment on a Facebook post”
Legal challenge to AG's appointment
Lopes' attorney filed a court request to void Gov. Kathy Hochul's appointment of James as special prosecutor and appoint a new prosecutor free from conflicts of interest.
AG's social media statement
James posted on Sept 28 supporting Jane Doe, saying her experience was 'horrific and unacceptable' and she stood with survivors.
“What this young woman has been forced to endure is horrific and unacceptable. I'm holding her in my heart and in my prayers. To her, and to all survivors: you're not alone. We stand with you”
AG declined to comment
James refused to address her social media post during a press conference last week.
“I will not comment on a Facebook post”
Governor defends AG
Gov. Kathy Hochul expressed confidence in James' ability to examine the record and draw proper conclusions.
“I have every confidence in our attorney general to do what she has always done. Look at the facts, examine the record, and draw the proper conclusions. That's exactly what's going to happen in this case”
Attorney argues bias
Lopes' attorney claims James' social media statement shows she accepted the factual premise of the allegations.
“Through this official public statement, Attorney General James has made clear that she has formed an opinion about the case, that she believes the allegations made by Jane Doe, and that she has already reached the conclusion that Petitioner and the other named Defendants are guilty”
Jane Doe's condition
Jane Doe's lawyer stated she was unable to consent due to being drugged with ketamine and intoxicated.
“She was not. Think about it. They were loading her up with ketamine. They were loading her up with, she was drunk before she walked in the door”
Lopes' suspension and penalties
Lopes was suspended for one year after being found responsible for sexual activity when Doe was incapable of consent.
The short version
A Cornell fraternity member accused in a sexual assault case seeks to remove New York Attorney General Letitia James from the investigation, arguing her social media post showed bias.
