Top Stories · October 9, 2026
Second defendant in Cornell fraternity case seeks New York AG’s recusal
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Two former Cornell University fraternity members, Winston Lee and Gillio Lopes, have filed legal motions seeking to disqualify New York Attorney General Letitia James from investigating sexual assault allegations against them. The motions argue that James and Governor Kathy Hochul created an 'appearance of impropriety' through public social media comments supporting the accuser, which the defense claims demonstrates a prejudgment of guilt. James was appointed as special prosecutor by Hochul after the local District Attorney originally declined to bring charges. The Attorney General's office has defended the appointment, stating the investigation will remain impartial and based strictly on evidence.
Two former Cornell University fraternity members, Winston Lee and Gillio Lopes, have filed legal motions seeking to disqualify New York Attorney General Letitia James from investigating sexual assault allegations against them. The motions argue that James and Governor Kathy Hochul created an 'appearance of impropriety' through public social media comments supporting the accuser, which the defense claims demonstrates a prejudgment of guilt. James was appointed as special prosecutor by Hochul after the local District Attorney originally declined to bring charges. The Attorney General's office has defended the appointment, stating the investigation will remain impartial and based strictly on evidence.