Judge allows Jane Doe to remain anonymous in Cornell sexual assault lawsuit

A judge in New York ruled that Jane Doe, a former Cornell University student, can remain anonymous in her sexual assault lawsuit involving seven former members of the Chi Phi fraternity, CBS News reported.

The judge cited the highly publicized nature of the allegations, concerns about retaliation and threats, and potential harm from public identification as reasons for granting anonymity, according to CBS News and ABC News.

Court filings will conceal Jane Doe's identity and sensitive personal information, though defendants may privately share identifying details under confidentiality protections, CBS News stated.

The judge also warned that cyberstalking, harassment, or threats against Jane Doe, the defendants, or their attorneys could lead to criminal prosecution, as reported by both outlets.

The ruling does not address the merits of the sexual assault claims but focuses on privacy protections as the civil case proceeds, ABC News noted.