Woman who sued Bill Cosby for sexual battery awarded $19.2 million

Bill Cosby Faces $19.2 Million Verdict in Sexual Battery Lawsuit

A Los Angeles County Superior Court jury in Santa Monica delivered a $19.2 million award to Donna Motsinger, a woman who claimed Bill Cosby sexually assaulted her over half a century ago, according to her attorney. The 2023 lawsuit centers on an allegation that Cosby committed sexual battery against a server he encountered at a Northern California restaurant in 1972.

Decade-Old Claims and Legal Proceedings

Donna Motsinger’s case alleges Cosby abused her in 1972, though the incident is now more than five decades past. Cosby, 88, has consistently denied the accusations, maintaining his innocence throughout the proceedings. A former representative of Cosby expressed disappointment, stating the verdict “sets a dangerous precedent” by allowing unproven, old allegations to prevail.

“Deeply saddened by the verdict, which allows decade-old allegations, presented without evidence or proof, to stand,” said the representative.

Meanwhile, Cosby’s legal history includes a 2018 conviction in Pennsylvania for three felony counts of aggravated indecent assault. That ruling was later overturned in 2021 when the state Supreme Court deemed his self-incrimination rights violated. Despite the reversal, Cosby reiterated his denial, insisting he “never changed my stance or my story” in that case.

Tim Stelloh, a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital, reported the developments. The case highlights ongoing legal battles surrounding Cosby’s alleged misconduct, with multiple claims spanning years and jurisdictions.