Bill Cosby ordered to pay $19.25m to woman in decades-old assault case
A California court has awarded $19.25 million in damages to a plaintiff who accused actor Bill Cosby of drugging and sexually assaulting her in the early 1970s. The legal action was initiated by Donna Motsinger, now in her 80s, who reported that in 1972,…
A California court has awarded $19.25 million in damages to a plaintiff who accused actor Bill Cosby of drugging and sexually assaulting her in the early 1970s. The legal action was initiated by Donna Motsinger, now in her 80s, who reported that in 1972, Cosby offered her a drink and a tablet, leading to a loss of control over her body.
Motsinger's account, as detailed in legal filings, includes fragmented memories of the incident, with recollections of brief flashes of awareness before awakening at home with signs of having been assaulted.
Defense Response and Legal Proceedings
Bill Cosby, 88, has denied the allegations. His legal representation contends that the account lacks a clear recollection of events and asserts that no assault took place. Attorney Jennifer Bonjean has indicated plans to contest the verdict.
His legal representation contends that the account lacks a clear recollection of events and asserts that no assault took place.
The jury's decision on damages is accompanied by a pending decision on potential additional penalties. The ruling is part of ongoing legal challenges involving Cosby, who has faced numerous similar accusations over several decades, which he continues to deny, asserting that any interactions were consensual.
In 2021, Cosby was released from prison following the overturning of a previous Pennsylvania conviction due to a legal technicality, after serving nearly three years of his sentence.
This case adds to the series of legal issues surrounding the former comedian.
Based on reporting by Africanews.