N.Y. Today: New York’s Rape Laws Leave Out Many Victims Who Drank Willingly

May 25, 2026

Leslie Hunt looks off into the distance while standing on a bridge. She is wearing dark business attire.

Bethany Mollenkof for The New York Times

New York’s Rape Laws Leave Out Many Victims Who Drank Willingly

Prosecutors say accusers who chose to drink or get high have a “very high burden” of proving they were physically helpless and unable to consent. There is a push to change the law.

By Maria Cramer and Olivia Bensimon

As Easy as Riding a Bike? Adult Learners Give It a Try.

At Bike New York’s free classes for adults, many novice riders are nervous. Many are embarrassed. And many are women.

By Lauren Rosenfield and Elias Williams

Erin Millender seated at a table while wearing a blue dress in front of a plant.

They Started I.V.F., Then Split. Now Who Gets Custody of the Embryos?

For 47-year-old Erin Millender, this will likely be her last chance to become a mother. Her husband no longer wants to have a child with her.

By Caroline Kitchener

This Is How You Steal a Scene Using Only a Bank

Deposit slips, vintage ledgers and more: David Korins’s Tony-nominated, 27,000-pound set for “Dog Day Afternoon” is as much a technical feat as a 1970s throwback.

By Melena Ryzik and Amir Hamja

A roller coaster at the bottom of a hill. Dragon imagery is on the front, and high above it is more track, including a huge dragon head that looks as if it is eating the track.

Playland’s Dragon Coaster, Nearing 100, Roars Back From Its Slumber

The roller coaster, one of the oldest in the country, was idle last summer but it is set to reopen on Memorial Day weekend after a major restoration.

By Neil Vigdor

Cast members stand side by side on a stage in front of a wall.

A Bounty of Free Theater in New York This Summer

Chekhov, Broadway stars and, yes, Shakespeare. There’s no shortage of free productions in the city this time of year. Here are 15 shows worth seeing.

By Rachel Sherman

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