Bill Cosby Liable for 1972 Sexual Assault, Awarded $59.25 Million in Damages
Bill Cosby has been found liable by a civil jury in California for drugging and sexually assaulting Donna Motsinger in 1972, with the jury awarding her $59.25 million in damages. The verdict, reached after a nearly two-week trial in Santa Monica, marks a significant outcome in one of the many civil suits filed against the comedian and actor.
Details of the Lawsuit and Verdict
The jury initially awarded Motsinger $17.5 million in past damages and $1.75 million for future damages, encompassing mental suffering, loss of enjoyment of life and emotional distress. Subsequently, they added $40 million in punitive damages as reported by ABC7.
Motsinger’s lawsuit, filed in 2023, detailed an encounter that allegedly occurred while she was working as a server at a restaurant near San Francisco. She claimed Cosby invited her to a comedy present and provided her with wine and pills he presented as aspirin, leading to her losing consciousness and waking up partially undressed at home according to CBS News.
Cosby’s Defense and Appeal
Cosby’s legal team, led by Jennifer Bonjean, argued that the allegations were based on speculation and lacked concrete evidence. Cosby himself did not testify during the trial. Bonjean stated the defense intends to appeal the verdict as reported by NBC Los Angeles.
Context of Previous Cases and Allegations
This verdict follows a similar 2022 ruling in California where another woman, Judy Huth, was awarded $500,000 after alleging Cosby sexually assaulted her at the Playboy Mansion when she was a teenager. Cosby’s 2018 criminal conviction for sexual assault was overturned by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court nearly five years before this civil ruling as noted by ABC7.
Over 60 women have publicly accused Cosby of sexual misconduct over the years, allegations he has consistently denied.
Motsinger’s Statement
“This verdict is not just about me — it’s about finally being heard and holding Mr. Cosby accountable,” Motsinger said in a statement. “I have carried the weight of what happened to me for more than 50 years. Today, a jury saw the truth and held him accountable. That means everything. I hope this gives strength to other survivors who are still waiting for their moment to be heard.” according to AI Journ.
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