Polymarket removes prediction market on Cornell rape case allegations

Polymarket has removed a controversial prediction market from its international platform that allowed users to wager on whether any of the seven men accused in a Cornell University rape case would face felony sex crime charges by January 31, 2027.

The market, which saw over $450,000 in trading volume, followed allegations from a former student, identified as Jane Doe, regarding a sexual assault at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. The lawsuit filed in September 2026 names seven men, the fraternity, and Cornell University, alleging sexual assault and institutional failure to protect the victim. The accused men have denied the allegations, stating interactions were consensual.

Polymarket initially defended the contract as a method to provide insight into government accountability. However, the company removed the market following intense public criticism from sexual assault advocates and pressure directed at its celebrity endorsers, including LeBron James. A spokesperson stated that while the market addressed whether the government would take action, the company decided to remove it after hearing the public outcry.