Remove the DA Who Failed Cornell Sexual Assault Survivor

A survivor came forward with allegations of a horrifying sexual assault at Cornell University. The local district attorney declined to prosecute — and now we've learned that he didn't even review key evidence collected by campus police before making that decision.

Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten has admitted he based his decision not to pursue charges on the accuser’s initial statement to police. But NBC News reports that Cornell police had collected additional witness statements and other evidence that he did not review before closing the case.

Governor Kathy Hochul has already said the survivor was failed by people who were supposed to protect her. She has removed Van Houten’s office from the case and appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor. That was necessary. But it is not enough.

Tell Governor Hochul: Do everything in your power to remove Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten now.

District attorneys hold enormous power over whether survivors are heard, whether evidence is reviewed, and whether cases move forward. When a prosecutor fails to do the basic work of reviewing available evidence in a sexual assault case, it undermines public trust in the entire justice system.

Survivors should not have to file a civil lawsuit or trigger national outrage just to get law enforcement to take their allegations seriously. They deserve prosecutors who act with care, urgency, and accountability from the beginning.

New York law gives Governor Hochul the authority to remove a district attorney from office after charges are presented and the official has an opportunity to respond. She should use that authority now to begin the process, establish the facts, and remove Van Houten if the record shows he failed in his duties.

Add your name and demand Governor Hochul take the next step. A DA who failed Cornell survivors should not remain in office.

The petition to Governor Kathy Hochul reads:

"Begin formal removal proceedings against Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten, fully investigate his handling of the Cornell sexual assault case, and remove him from office if the record shows he failed to perform his duties."