Cornell. Prosecutor may be removed from the investigation

A judge is assessing whether New York Attorney General Letitia James' social media posts could affect her impartiality in a group sexual assault investigation at Cornell University. The case was brought by one of the accused, who argues that James has shown bias. Comments made by James prior to her appointment, labeling the incident as 'horrible and unacceptable' and expressing support for the alleged victim, are under scrutiny. During a court hearing, the defense argued that impartial individuals could conduct the investigation. James, who was absent from the hearing, stated her investigation would be based solely on facts and law, emphasizing the need for empathy in politics. The judge questioned the appropriateness of her statements, while the deputy attorney general asserted that proving actual harm to the accused is necessary for James' removal. The case involves allegations from a former Cornell student who claims she was assaulted at a fraternity party in 2024.