Ithaca council halts Cornell event permits amid scrutiny over handling of rape allegations

The Ithaca Common Council voted late Wednesday night to stop issuing city permits to Cornell University and affiliated student groups, including fraternities, following widespread criticism of the Ivy League school's handling of rape allegations made by a former student.

After hours of debate, the council voted 9-1 in favor of a moratorium, which temporarily bars Cornell from obtaining new permits for assemblies, parades and special events at the Ithaca Commons and activities requiring noise permits, citing public safety concerns.