California Jury Orders Bill Cosby To Pay Millions
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Los Angeles — A civil jury in California on Monday found Bill Cosby liable for drugging and sexually assaulting Donna Motsinger in 1972 and awarded her $19.25 million in compensatory damages after a nearly two-week trial in Santa Monica; jurors considered further punitive damages in a second phase.
Jurors later addressed punitive damages, with some outlets reporting an additional $40 million award and a combined total around $59.25 million; Cosby's attorney said they will appeal, and the decision follows the 2021 Pennsylvania Supreme Court reversal of his earlier criminal conviction for similar allegations.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 1972: Alleged assault of Donna Motsinger by Bill Cosby.
- 2. 2021: Pennsylvania Supreme Court overturned Cosby’s criminal conviction.
- 3. 2023: Motsinger filed a civil lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court.
- 4. March 2026: Nearly two-week civil trial held in Santa Monica, California.
- 5. March 24, 2026: Jury found Cosby liable and returned awards including compensatory and punitive damages; appeal announced.
Why it matters
This verdict sends a strong message about accountability for sexual assault, even decades later. It's a reminder to always report such incidents, no matter when they occur. Check your state's statute of limitations on sexual assault cases.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
