Albany, New York – After being named to a working group to examine issues and perspectives surrounding New York’s sexual assault statutes by Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, New York State Assemblymember Charles Lavine (D-North Shore) issued the following statement:

“I am deeply troubled by the allegations surrounding the Cornell rape case. Particularly the vile attempts by so many to blame the victim. The voices of crime victims must be listened to. Those responsible must be prosecuted and held accountable. I am honored to have been selected for this profoundly significant task. I thank Speaker Heastie and hope that something positive will come out of this that will help protect the people of New York State.”