James says she will conduct a fair Cornell investigation despite criticism
Letitia JamesNew York attorney general, interviewed at Newsday headquarters
James promises a fair investigation and defends her earlier posts as expressions of empathy.
“We will engage in a fair and comprehensive and open investigation into this matter.”
Interview
Where this statement fits
Was Kathy Hochul right to appoint Letitia James as special prosecutor in the Cornell case?
Governor Kathy Hochul appoints Attorney General Letitia James to investigate the alleged October 2024 sexual assault at Cornell and pursue prosecution if warranted. Hochul says an independent investigation is needed after questions about the campus police and local district attorney's handling. John Ziegler denounces the appointment, while Benjamin Ryan questions whether James's earlier public statement compromises her impartiality.
Source and context
Interview
About this source
Newsday interviews James on Wednesday, October 14, about the investigation and her earlier comments.
Archived copy (opens in a new tab)Before the quotation
Newsday asks James how she will ensure a fair investigation after critics question her suitability.
After the quotation
James describes her earlier social-media statements as expressions of empathy.
How this statement is classified
The label describes this statement's response within the context above.
Why this label?
The matter under scrutiny is James's appointment. Her answer defends her ability to conduct this investigation fairly in response to criticism of her suitability.
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More from this case
Read the full caseMiltenberg says James cannot be a neutral Cornell investigator
“I do not believe she can be fair. Had she made a statement that was empathetic or compassionate towards a victim, that's fine. I don't think that person can become a neutral investigator or prosecutor,”Read statement
Hochul explains why she appointed James after reports of an incomplete police account
“That's why I believe this case demands a special prosecutor who will provide a fresh and thorough review of all the facts”Read statement
Trump criticizes James's appointment by saying those she investigates will be treated unfairly
“I feel badly for whoever she's looking at because they won't get a fair shake.”Read statement
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The Dispute Index. "James says she will conduct a fair Cornell investigation despite criticism". First published: 2026-10-25. Last updated: 2026-10-25. https://disputeindex.com/events/6732-james-promises-a-fair-investigation-and-defends-her