Governor Hochul, Remove DA Van Houten | Cornell Gang Rape Case
The Issue
On the weekend of October 19-20, 2024, an egregious incident took place at Cornell University. Jane Doe came forward with a harrowing account of gang rape by members of a fraternity. Hoping to receive justice, Jane Doe detailed the traumatic events to the police.
District Attorney Matthew Van Houten decided to not press charges without reading her interview with the police. He told the press, "It was not even a close call."
It is imperative that District Attorneys uphold their responsibilities to protect and serve the interests of victims. DA Van Houten has failed to perform the basic duties of his position so he should no longer hold this position.
We demand that Governor Kathy Hochul takes a definitive step in rectifying this failure by firing District Attorney Matthew Van Houten. We must ensure that all survivors are heard, and that their cases are pursued with the seriousness and dedication they deserve. The removal of DA Van Houten will not only bring some measure of justice to Jane Doe, but will send a message to DAs everywhere that they need to take sexual violence seriously.
By signing this petition, you stand with survivors of sexual assault, and for a justice system that lives up to its promise of fairness and accountability. Let us demand better for our communities and ensure this never happens again.
Stand with the Cornell Jane Doe.
#StandWithSurvivors
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The Issue
On the weekend of October 19-20, 2024, an egregious incident took place at Cornell University. Jane Doe came forward with a harrowing account of gang rape by members of a fraternity. Hoping to receive justice, Jane Doe detailed the traumatic events to the police.
District Attorney Matthew Van Houten decided to not press charges without reading her interview with the police. He told the press, "It was not even a close call."
It is imperative that District Attorneys uphold their responsibilities to protect and serve the interests of victims. DA Van Houten has failed to perform the basic duties of his position so he should no longer hold this position.
We demand that Governor Kathy Hochul takes a definitive step in rectifying this failure by firing District Attorney Matthew Van Houten. We must ensure that all survivors are heard, and that their cases are pursued with the seriousness and dedication they deserve. The removal of DA Van Houten will not only bring some measure of justice to Jane Doe, but will send a message to DAs everywhere that they need to take sexual violence seriously.
By signing this petition, you stand with survivors of sexual assault, and for a justice system that lives up to its promise of fairness and accountability. Let us demand better for our communities and ensure this never happens again.
Stand with the Cornell Jane Doe.
#StandWithSurvivors
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on September 30, 2026