Bill Cosby Ordered to Pay $19.25M in Sexual Assault Lawsuit

In a major legal development, a California jury has ordered Bill Cosby to pay over $19 million in damages to Donna Motsinger. The verdict concludes that the 88-year-old comedian drugged and sexually assaulted Motsinger more than 50 years ago, marking a significant judicial rebuke.

A Harrowing Account from 1972

The $19.25 million judgment comes after a civil trial where Motsinger, a former waitress, detailed her harrowing experience from 1972. She alleged that after attending one of Cosby’s comedy shows, he offered her wine and a pill that caused her to lose consciousness. According to court documents, Motsinger awoke at her home partially clothed, realizing she had been drugged and raped by Cosby.

Outside the Santa Monica courthouse, Motsinger expressed a profound sense of relief, stating, “It has been 54 years to get justice, and I know it’s not complete for the rest of the women, but I hope it helps them a little bit.” For her, the true victory wasn’t the financial award, but being believed and seeing Cosby held accountable.

Second Major Civil Loss for Cosby

This verdict represents the second significant civil loss for the former “America’s Dad” in recent years. It follows a 2022 liability finding in the Judy Huth case. Despite these legal setbacks, Cosby’s defense team has indicated plans to appeal the decision.

Attorney Jennifer Bonjean stated, “I was obviously disappointed in the decision, but we believe we have a strong appeal and we’ll pursue that.” This latest sexual assault verdict comes as Cosby has publicly claimed financial difficulties, describing his net worth as a “submarine with no motor” due to a decade without earnings from acting roles.

Financial Claims vs. Jury’s Priority

Cosby’s defense team has pointed to his reported financial struggles, including legal fees and a mortgage default. However, the jury prioritized restitution for the 1972 sexual assault, holding him accountable regardless of his claimed decline in net worth. Cosby’s reported net worth is now estimated at $200 million, half of its previous value.

The jury is also expected to determine further punitive damages, which could increase the final amount awarded to Motsinger. This judgment underscores the legal system’s commitment to addressing past harms, even after many decades.