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Bill Cosby Faces Civil Trial Over 1972 Assault Claims

3/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A civil trial in California over sexual assault allegations by Donna Motsinger, the plaintiff, against Bill Cosby began, with opening statements on Tuesday.
Motsinger, now 84, accuses Cosby of drugging and assaulting her in 1972 after he provided wine and a pill, and she woke up disrobed in her home.
Cosby denies the allegations, saying any sexual contact was consensual.
The trial is expected to last about two weeks.

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Story summary

A civil trial in California over sexual assault allegations by Donna Motsinger, the plaintiff, against Bill Cosby began, with opening statements on Tuesday.
Motsinger, now 84, accuses Cosby of drugging and assaulting her in 1972 after he provided wine and a pill, and she woke up disrobed in her home.
Cosby denies the allegations, saying any sexual contact was consensual.
The trial is expected to last about two weeks.