Statement from Governor Hochul

"Every student deserves to feel safe on their campus. And when someone reports sexual assault, they deserve to be heard, treated with compassion, and know their allegations will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated by law enforcement trained to support survivors.

"That is why, at my direction, the New York State Police signed an agreement with Cornell University in which all sexual offense complaints that would normally fall under the jurisdiction of Cornell University Police will be immediately referred to State Police for criminal investigation unless otherwise requested by the individual.

"What Jane Doe described is horrifying. Survivors should be able to trust the institutions responsible for protecting them. We cannot afford to let them down.

"I will continue to do everything in my power to make sure survivors are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve, and that justice and accountability are pursued."