Published on: September 18, 2024, 11:27h.
Last updated on: September 18, 2024, 11:41h.
Bill Cosby is set to make his first public appearance in Las Vegas since 2011 as a defendant.
A US District Court in Las Vegas has approved a civil lawsuit filed by 10 women against Bill Cosby for sexual abuse.
The lawsuit claims sexual assault, emotional distress, battery, and false imprisonment. It was filed after the passage of Senate Bill 129 in Nevada, which removed the statute of limitations for civil claims by survivors of sexual violence.
A trial date has not been scheduled yet, and the specific damages sought in the lawsuit are unknown.
US District Judge Gloria Navarro dismissed arguments from Cosby’s attorney that SB 129 violated his due process rights and the state’s laws. She also dismissed the sexual assault claims due to Nevada law but deferred a decision on one woman’s claim about forced masturbation. Navarro will seek guidance from the Nevada Supreme Court on this matter.
As these are civil lawsuits, Cosby, 87, cannot be imprisoned if found guilty.
Cosby’s Legal Situation
Bill Cosby, known for his clean comedy and iconic TV roles, is facing numerous sexual assault allegations dating back to 2014.
Over 60 women have come forward with similar stories, accusing Cosby of drugging and assaulting them. Some lawsuits were filed under the Adult Survivors Act, with many victims feeling safe around Cosby due to his wholesome image.
Cosby’s legal troubles began in 2015 with felony charges in Pennsylvania. His first trial ended in a mistrial, but he was later convicted and sentenced to prison. However, his conviction was overturned in 2021 by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
Bill Cosby maintains his innocence and denies all allegations of sexual misconduct.