Bill Cosby Liable: Woman Awarded $19.25M for 1972 Rape Case

A jury in Santa Monica found Bill Cosby liable in a long‑running sexual assault claim. The plaintiff, Donna Motsinger, was awarded $19.25m after a civil trial.

Jury verdict and damages

The jury broke the award into two parts. Motsinger received $17.5m for past mental suffering.

She was also awarded $1.75m for future suffering. The total award was $19.25m.

Allegations and account of events

Motsinger says she met Cosby at a Sausalito restaurant in 1972. He then invited her to a recording of his stand‑up at the Circle Star Theatre in San Carlos.

She alleges he gave her wine and small white pills she believed were aspirin. She said she went in and out of consciousness and later woke at home with most clothing removed.

Evidence shown at trial

Her lawyer, Spencer Lucas, argued the evidence showed a pattern. Lucas told the court the alleged scheme involved sedatives mixed with alcohol to render women unable to consent.

Prosecutors played excerpts of a videotaped deposition in which Cosby discussed obtaining a prescription for Quaaludes. The transcript showed the prescription was acquired during a poker game, and that Cosby acknowledged offering pills to women he wanted to have sex with.

Court documents said Cosby filled that prescription seven times, producing 210 Quaalude pills.

Legal aftermath and response

Cosby’s defense lawyer, Jennifer Bonjean, said the team was disappointed with the verdict. The defence indicated they plan to appeal the decision.

Cosby was previously convicted in 2018 and served time in prison. He was released in 2021 after that conviction was overturned.

Context and next steps

The case centers on a 1972 rape allegation and the civil finding that Bill Cosby was liable. The jury award marks a significant civil resolution to the claim.

Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments and report on any appeals or further filings. Readers should expect updates as new filings appear in court records.