Text Messages Revealed in Cornell Fraternity Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Text messages have surfaced in connection with a high-profile civil lawsuit filed by a woman alleging she was assaulted by members of Cornell University's Chi Phi fraternity. The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe, claims seven students coerced her into consuming drugs and alcohol before sexually assaulting her over a seven-hour period during an off-campus party in October 2024. The newly revealed communications exchange between Doe and one of the accused, Jonathan Newell, took place the day following the alleged incident.

In the messages obtained by media outlets, Newell reached out to apologize for how events unfolded, noting his memory was hazy and expressing regret that the situation got out of hand. Doe responded favorably at the time, writing, "Aw jonathan i really appreciate this text. my memories are super clouded too. i think we were all way to f**king drunk and high." She added, "At the end of the day non [sic] of the sexual stuff was illegal and honestly I really liked being w u and matt," while dismissing external criticism by asserting, "our body our choice."

Doe reported the alleged assault to law enforcement three weeks after the party, but prosecutors declined to file criminal charges due to insufficient evidence. However, Cornell University subsequently conducted a Title IX investigation that led to the permanent shutdown of the Chi Phi fraternity and the expulsion of Newell. Records also revealed that Newell was designated as an official sober event monitor on the night of the incident, a role requiring him to remain unimpaired to ensure safety.

All seven accused men have consistently denied the allegations, maintaining that any sexual activity was entirely consensual. Newell, who was recently dismissed from Nova Southeastern University following earlier disciplinary actions, stated during investigations that he did not recall sending Snapchat messages that allegedly invited other fraternity brothers into the room. The case now proceeds in civil court as the plaintiff seeks damages for the alleged misconduct.