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Revealed: the case against Bill Cosby - through the stories of his accusers Revealed: the case against Bill Cosby – through the stories of his accusers
(about 7 hours later)
They didn’t see a comedian. They saw the “king of the world”.They didn’t see a comedian. They saw the “king of the world”.
Long before there was a Dr Cliff Huxtable, before rumpled sweaters and a collective anointing as America’s dad, Bill Cosby was magnified a hundredfold in the eyes of the young models and actresses that entered into his orbit. For them, he embodied the hippest of the 1960s and 1970s Hollywood scene, a mega star with the power to make somebodies out of nobodies.Long before there was a Dr Cliff Huxtable, before rumpled sweaters and a collective anointing as America’s dad, Bill Cosby was magnified a hundredfold in the eyes of the young models and actresses that entered into his orbit. For them, he embodied the hippest of the 1960s and 1970s Hollywood scene, a mega star with the power to make somebodies out of nobodies.
He partied with Hugh Hefner and was a regular at the magazine mogul’s Playboy Mansion bacchanals. He co-owned a restaurant and hit the hottest clubs. He sizzled.He partied with Hugh Hefner and was a regular at the magazine mogul’s Playboy Mansion bacchanals. He co-owned a restaurant and hit the hottest clubs. He sizzled.
Now, 16 women have publicly stated that Cosby, now 77, sexually assaulted them, with 12 saying he drugged them first and another saying he tried to drug her. The Washington Post has interviewed several of those women, including a former Playboy Playmate who has never spoken publicly about her allegations.Now, 16 women have publicly stated that Cosby, now 77, sexually assaulted them, with 12 saying he drugged them first and another saying he tried to drug her. The Washington Post has interviewed several of those women, including a former Playboy Playmate who has never spoken publicly about her allegations.
The accusations, all of which Cosby and his lawyers have now denied, span the arc of the comedy legend’s career, from his pioneering years as the first black star of a network television drama in 1965 to the mid-2000s, when Cosby was firmly entrenched as an elder statesman of the entertainment industry, a scolding public conscience of the African American community and a philanthropist. They also span a monumental generational shift in perceptions – from the sexually unrestrained 1960s to an era when the idea of date rape is well understood.The accusations, all of which Cosby and his lawyers have now denied, span the arc of the comedy legend’s career, from his pioneering years as the first black star of a network television drama in 1965 to the mid-2000s, when Cosby was firmly entrenched as an elder statesman of the entertainment industry, a scolding public conscience of the African American community and a philanthropist. They also span a monumental generational shift in perceptions – from the sexually unrestrained 1960s to an era when the idea of date rape is well understood.
The saga of the abuse allegations is set in locales that speak to Cosby’s wealth and fame: a Hollywood-studio bungalow, a chauffeured limousine, luxury hotels, a New York City brownstone. But it also stretches into unexpected places, such as an obscure Denver talent agency that referred two of Cosby’s future accusers to the star for mentoring.The saga of the abuse allegations is set in locales that speak to Cosby’s wealth and fame: a Hollywood-studio bungalow, a chauffeured limousine, luxury hotels, a New York City brownstone. But it also stretches into unexpected places, such as an obscure Denver talent agency that referred two of Cosby’s future accusers to the star for mentoring.
The allegations are strung together by patterns that appear and reappear with remarkable consistency: mostly young, white women without family nearby; drugs offered as palliatives; resistance and pursuit; accusers worrying that no one would believe them; lifelong trauma. There is also a pattern of intense response by Cosby’s team of attorneys and publicists, who have used the media to attack the credibility of his accusers.The allegations are strung together by patterns that appear and reappear with remarkable consistency: mostly young, white women without family nearby; drugs offered as palliatives; resistance and pursuit; accusers worrying that no one would believe them; lifelong trauma. There is also a pattern of intense response by Cosby’s team of attorneys and publicists, who have used the media to attack the credibility of his accusers.
Martin Singer, an attorney for Cosby, issued a statement on Friday defending his client and assailing the news media.Martin Singer, an attorney for Cosby, issued a statement on Friday defending his client and assailing the news media.
“The new, never-before-heard claims from women who have come forward in the past two weeks with unsubstantiated, fantastical stories about things they say occurred 30, 40, or even 50 years ago have escalated far past the point of absurdity,” he said. “These brand new claims about alleged decades-old events are becoming increasingly ridiculous, and it is completely illogical that so many people would have said nothing, done nothing, and made no reports to law enforcement or asserted civil claims if they thought they had been assaulted over a span of so many years. Nurse Therese Serignese, 57, is one of Cosby’s accusers“The new, never-before-heard claims from women who have come forward in the past two weeks with unsubstantiated, fantastical stories about things they say occurred 30, 40, or even 50 years ago have escalated far past the point of absurdity,” he said. “These brand new claims about alleged decades-old events are becoming increasingly ridiculous, and it is completely illogical that so many people would have said nothing, done nothing, and made no reports to law enforcement or asserted civil claims if they thought they had been assaulted over a span of so many years. Nurse Therese Serignese, 57, is one of Cosby’s accusers
“Lawsuits are filed against people in the public eye every day. There has never been a shortage of lawyers willing to represent people with claims against rich, powerful men, so it makes no sense that not one of these women who just came forward for the first time now ever asserted a legal claim back at the time they allege they had been sexually assaulted.“Lawsuits are filed against people in the public eye every day. There has never been a shortage of lawyers willing to represent people with claims against rich, powerful men, so it makes no sense that not one of these women who just came forward for the first time now ever asserted a legal claim back at the time they allege they had been sexually assaulted.
“This situation is an unprecedented example of the media’s breakneck rush to run stories without any corroboration or adherence to traditional journalistic standards. Over and over again, we have refuted these new unsubstantiated stories with documentary evidence, only to have a new uncorroborated story crop up out of the woodwork. When will it end? It is long past time for this media vilification of Mr Cosby to stop.”“This situation is an unprecedented example of the media’s breakneck rush to run stories without any corroboration or adherence to traditional journalistic standards. Over and over again, we have refuted these new unsubstantiated stories with documentary evidence, only to have a new uncorroborated story crop up out of the woodwork. When will it end? It is long past time for this media vilification of Mr Cosby to stop.”
During an interview on Friday with Florida Today, Cosby said: “I know people are tired of me not saying anything, but a guy doesn’t have to answer to innuendos. People should fact check. People shouldn’t have to go through that and shouldn’t answer to innuendos.” When he took the stage on Friday in Melbourne, Florida, he received a standing ovation from the sold-out crowd.During an interview on Friday with Florida Today, Cosby said: “I know people are tired of me not saying anything, but a guy doesn’t have to answer to innuendos. People should fact check. People shouldn’t have to go through that and shouldn’t answer to innuendos.” When he took the stage on Friday in Melbourne, Florida, he received a standing ovation from the sold-out crowd.
Americans who sat in front of their television sets on September 15 1965 had never seen anything like Alexander Scott, the jet-setting international spy. Black stars had appeared on their screens before but never in a leading role, and this one happened to be a 28-year-old comic who just three years earlier had dropped out of Temple University.Americans who sat in front of their television sets on September 15 1965 had never seen anything like Alexander Scott, the jet-setting international spy. Black stars had appeared on their screens before but never in a leading role, and this one happened to be a 28-year-old comic who just three years earlier had dropped out of Temple University.
The reaction to Cosby’s breakthrough as a co-star appearing on equal footing with a white actor, Robert Culp, reflected a nation still haltingly emerging from its segregationist past. Some Southern television stations banned the programme because of Cosby’s prominent role, but much of the nation embraced it, making I Spy a hit.The reaction to Cosby’s breakthrough as a co-star appearing on equal footing with a white actor, Robert Culp, reflected a nation still haltingly emerging from its segregationist past. Some Southern television stations banned the programme because of Cosby’s prominent role, but much of the nation embraced it, making I Spy a hit.
The Hollywood establishment awarded lead actor Emmys to Cosby in the three seasons the programme aired.Soon he would have his own programme (The Bill Cosby Show) and all the trappings that went along with it, including his own Hollywood studio bungalow. A teenage comedy writer named Joan Tarshis was more than thrilled to get an invite to that private hideaway in 1969.The Hollywood establishment awarded lead actor Emmys to Cosby in the three seasons the programme aired.Soon he would have his own programme (The Bill Cosby Show) and all the trappings that went along with it, including his own Hollywood studio bungalow. A teenage comedy writer named Joan Tarshis was more than thrilled to get an invite to that private hideaway in 1969.
Tarshis was only 19, but she had already written monologues for Godfrey Cambridge, one of a handful of nationally prominent black comedians in the mid- and late 1960s, she said in an interview with The Post. But getting to hang out with Cosby was almost like taking an express elevator to the penthouse without stopping at the upper floors.Tarshis was only 19, but she had already written monologues for Godfrey Cambridge, one of a handful of nationally prominent black comedians in the mid- and late 1960s, she said in an interview with The Post. But getting to hang out with Cosby was almost like taking an express elevator to the penthouse without stopping at the upper floors.
Cosby was a familiar face on the party circuit, knocking around with Hefner, author Shel Silverstein and John Dante, the second-in-command at Playboy, according to Mr Playboy: Hugh Hefner and the American Dream, by Steven Watts.Cosby was a familiar face on the party circuit, knocking around with Hefner, author Shel Silverstein and John Dante, the second-in-command at Playboy, according to Mr Playboy: Hugh Hefner and the American Dream, by Steven Watts.
“Hef and his three buddies loved to fly up to [Playboy’s resort on Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva], catch a show, and throw a party for Bunnies and performers,” Watts wrote.“Hef and his three buddies loved to fly up to [Playboy’s resort on Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva], catch a show, and throw a party for Bunnies and performers,” Watts wrote.
Cosby was also hitting it big with comedy records, though in hindsight one of his riffs seems particularly insensitive. On his 1969 record, “It’s True! It’s True!,” Cosby joked about drugging women with Spanish Fly, a purported aphrodisiac. Cosby tells the story of a character who convinced him of its powers by recounting how he had slipped some into the drink of a woman named “Crazy Mary”. After that, Cosby said, he’d “go to a party, see five girls standing alone” and think, “Boy, if I had a whole jug of Spanish Fly I’d light that corner up over there.” The audience roars with laughter.Cosby was also hitting it big with comedy records, though in hindsight one of his riffs seems particularly insensitive. On his 1969 record, “It’s True! It’s True!,” Cosby joked about drugging women with Spanish Fly, a purported aphrodisiac. Cosby tells the story of a character who convinced him of its powers by recounting how he had slipped some into the drink of a woman named “Crazy Mary”. After that, Cosby said, he’d “go to a party, see five girls standing alone” and think, “Boy, if I had a whole jug of Spanish Fly I’d light that corner up over there.” The audience roars with laughter.
At a lunch at Cosby’s bungalow, Tarshis claimed, he urged her to mix a beer with her bloody Mary.At a lunch at Cosby’s bungalow, Tarshis claimed, he urged her to mix a beer with her bloody Mary.
“We call that a redeye,” she said he told her.“We call that a redeye,” she said he told her.
She said Cosby invited her to the set of his new show, and then went back to his bungalow to work on some jokes about earthquakes, since Los Angeles had recently been hit by tremors.She said Cosby invited her to the set of his new show, and then went back to his bungalow to work on some jokes about earthquakes, since Los Angeles had recently been hit by tremors.
“I said, ‘Sure!’ ” states Tarshis, who first disclosed her accusations this month in a column for the website Hollywood Elsewhere. “I mean, I had written for Godfrey Cambridge and now I was going to write for Bill Cosby!”“I said, ‘Sure!’ ” states Tarshis, who first disclosed her accusations this month in a column for the website Hollywood Elsewhere. “I mean, I had written for Godfrey Cambridge and now I was going to write for Bill Cosby!”
In the bungalow, Tarshis said, Cosby made her another redeye. “I don’t know what was in that drink, but it knocked me out. The next thing I remember after having that drink was waking up on his couch,” she said. “I was really foggy. He was trying to take my underwear off.”In the bungalow, Tarshis said, Cosby made her another redeye. “I don’t know what was in that drink, but it knocked me out. The next thing I remember after having that drink was waking up on his couch,” she said. “I was really foggy. He was trying to take my underwear off.”
She tried to talk her way out of an unwanted sexual encounter, she said, claiming she made up a story about having a genital infection.She tried to talk her way out of an unwanted sexual encounter, she said, claiming she made up a story about having a genital infection.
“‘If you have sex with me, your wife will know,’” she claimed she told him. “He didn’t miss a beat. He knew exactly how to respond. He made me give him oral sex. It was pretty horrible.”“‘If you have sex with me, your wife will know,’” she claimed she told him. “He didn’t miss a beat. He knew exactly how to respond. He made me give him oral sex. It was pretty horrible.”
She told no one. Instead, she went home to Brooklyn.She told no one. Instead, she went home to Brooklyn.
A few weeks later, Cosby called her house and spoke to her mother, who had no idea what had allegedly happened on that couch in the bungalow, Tarshis said. Cosby told Tarshis’s mother that he wanted to take her daughter to the Westbury Music Fair on Long Island to hear him deliver a monologue to which Tarshis had made a small writing contribution.A few weeks later, Cosby called her house and spoke to her mother, who had no idea what had allegedly happened on that couch in the bungalow, Tarshis said. Cosby told Tarshis’s mother that he wanted to take her daughter to the Westbury Music Fair on Long Island to hear him deliver a monologue to which Tarshis had made a small writing contribution.
“She was over the moon,” Tarshis said of her mother. “She was so excited.”“She was over the moon,” Tarshis said of her mother. “She was so excited.”
Looking back through the prism of four decades, Tarshis, now 66, wonders why she went. “I didn’t know how to handle it,” she said. “I thought, ‘Okay, I’m going to be in a theatre. It’s going to be safe.’ I didn’t see any way out.”Looking back through the prism of four decades, Tarshis, now 66, wonders why she went. “I didn’t know how to handle it,” she said. “I thought, ‘Okay, I’m going to be in a theatre. It’s going to be safe.’ I didn’t see any way out.”
A limousine picked her up at her mother’s and took her to Cosby’s New York hotel room at the Sherry Netherland, Tarshis recalled. Tarshis – who has acknowledged having a drinking problem but says she has been sober since 1988 – remembered being “nervous and uncomfortable”. She had a drink with him to calm down because she was so uneasy about being in his presence after the first alleged assault, she said. By the time they got to the theatre, she was feeling so unsteady that she had to leave, she said. She asked the limousine driver to take her back to the car. She lay down.A limousine picked her up at her mother’s and took her to Cosby’s New York hotel room at the Sherry Netherland, Tarshis recalled. Tarshis – who has acknowledged having a drinking problem but says she has been sober since 1988 – remembered being “nervous and uncomfortable”. She had a drink with him to calm down because she was so uneasy about being in his presence after the first alleged assault, she said. By the time they got to the theatre, she was feeling so unsteady that she had to leave, she said. She asked the limousine driver to take her back to the car. She lay down.
“The next thing I know, I’m in his hotel room, in his bed, naked,” Tarshis said. She said she believed he had sexually assaulted her.“The next thing I know, I’m in his hotel room, in his bed, naked,” Tarshis said. She said she believed he had sexually assaulted her.
“My first thought was, ‘How do I get out of here?’” she said. “Also, ‘how do I get out of here safely?’ I didn’t want to aggravate him. I didn’t know what he’d do.”“My first thought was, ‘How do I get out of here?’” she said. “Also, ‘how do I get out of here safely?’ I didn’t want to aggravate him. I didn’t know what he’d do.”
John Milward, a freelance reporter and author, confirmed that Tarshis told him about her Cosby allegations in the early 1980s, though he never wrote about them. And, Tarshis said, she never contacted the police.John Milward, a freelance reporter and author, confirmed that Tarshis told him about her Cosby allegations in the early 1980s, though he never wrote about them. And, Tarshis said, she never contacted the police.
“Who was going to believe me?” she said. “If he was a regular joe, I might have done something.”“Who was going to believe me?” she said. “If he was a regular joe, I might have done something.”
One of Cosby’s attorneys, John Schmitt, issued a statement this past week saying that repeating old allegations “does not make them true”. An activist campaigns outside the theatre where Bill Cosby received a standing ovationOne of Cosby’s attorneys, John Schmitt, issued a statement this past week saying that repeating old allegations “does not make them true”. An activist campaigns outside the theatre where Bill Cosby received a standing ovation
She wanted an adventure. With school graduation behind her, Linda Traitz and a group of friends left Miami Beach in 1969 to see what it would be like to live in California.She wanted an adventure. With school graduation behind her, Linda Traitz and a group of friends left Miami Beach in 1969 to see what it would be like to live in California.
She took a job as a waitress. It wasn’t about the job; it was about the place, a place filled with stars, a place that glittered. Traitz worked at Cafe Figaro, a West Hollywood spot that was notable, in part, because of Cosby, who co-owned it and made it his hangout for business meetings. “I was young and star-struck,” Traitz, now 63, recalled in an interview with The Post.She took a job as a waitress. It wasn’t about the job; it was about the place, a place filled with stars, a place that glittered. Traitz worked at Cafe Figaro, a West Hollywood spot that was notable, in part, because of Cosby, who co-owned it and made it his hangout for business meetings. “I was young and star-struck,” Traitz, now 63, recalled in an interview with The Post.
Traitz’s year of adventure coincided with Cosby’s emergence as a solo phenomenon. He was no longer Culp’s co-star or merely a clever comic; he was showing he could do it all: conceive, write and act. NBC debuted an animated TV movie version of his brainchild, Fat Albert. His situation comedy, The Bill Cosby Show, launched, and he was about to win his fourth Emmy for a television special he headlined. He even did a Crest toothpaste ad. Everything he touched glistened.Traitz’s year of adventure coincided with Cosby’s emergence as a solo phenomenon. He was no longer Culp’s co-star or merely a clever comic; he was showing he could do it all: conceive, write and act. NBC debuted an animated TV movie version of his brainchild, Fat Albert. His situation comedy, The Bill Cosby Show, launched, and he was about to win his fourth Emmy for a television special he headlined. He even did a Crest toothpaste ad. Everything he touched glistened.
In the midst of all that, Traitz said, Cosby chatted her up one day at his restaurant and offered a ride home. She could not have imagined saying anything but yes.In the midst of all that, Traitz said, Cosby chatted her up one day at his restaurant and offered a ride home. She could not have imagined saying anything but yes.
The minutiae of that day are carved into her mind. She even remembers what she was wearing: a long “hippie days” peasant skirt. She climbed into Cosby’s Rolls Royce and he suggested they drive out to the beach, Traitz recalled. Once they parked at the beach, he opened a briefcase, she said.The minutiae of that day are carved into her mind. She even remembers what she was wearing: a long “hippie days” peasant skirt. She climbed into Cosby’s Rolls Royce and he suggested they drive out to the beach, Traitz recalled. Once they parked at the beach, he opened a briefcase, she said.
“It had assorted sections in it, with pills and tablets in it, different colours arranged and assorted into compartments,” she claimed. She further stated: “He offered me pills and said it would help me to relax, and I kept refusing but he kept offering.”“It had assorted sections in it, with pills and tablets in it, different colours arranged and assorted into compartments,” she claimed. She further stated: “He offered me pills and said it would help me to relax, and I kept refusing but he kept offering.”
Cosby “lunged” at her, she said, “grabbed my chest, grabbed me in the front all over.” “I was crying and horrified,” she said. She broke free, she said, and tumbled out of the car. She ran down the beach with Cosby in pursuit, but she tripped on that long peasant skirt and fell onto the sand, she said.Cosby “lunged” at her, she said, “grabbed my chest, grabbed me in the front all over.” “I was crying and horrified,” she said. She broke free, she said, and tumbled out of the car. She ran down the beach with Cosby in pursuit, but she tripped on that long peasant skirt and fell onto the sand, she said.
Cosby agreed to take her home. Her skirt was torn. Walking back to the car, they passed a block filled with shops. Cosby bought her a new skirt, she said.Cosby agreed to take her home. Her skirt was torn. Walking back to the car, they passed a block filled with shops. Cosby bought her a new skirt, she said.
They rode in silence. “He froze me out,” she said. He never tried anything again, she said, but Traitz could not keep the incident to herself. She told her co-workers and her family what happened at the time. She decided not to go to the police.They rode in silence. “He froze me out,” she said. He never tried anything again, she said, but Traitz could not keep the incident to herself. She told her co-workers and her family what happened at the time. She decided not to go to the police.
“It was a different time,” her brother, Jim Traitz, told The Post. “We all also knew this was a really big guy with a big PR operation and lawyers, and that he could crush us – that he would crush us – and her.”“It was a different time,” her brother, Jim Traitz, told The Post. “We all also knew this was a really big guy with a big PR operation and lawyers, and that he could crush us – that he would crush us – and her.”
Life has not been easy for Linda Traitz, who has a history of drug addiction. In the past decade, she has amassed a criminal record with multiple convictions, mostly related to prescription drugs, according to Florida court records. She received a five-year prison term, serving from 2008 to 2012.Life has not been easy for Linda Traitz, who has a history of drug addiction. In the past decade, she has amassed a criminal record with multiple convictions, mostly related to prescription drugs, according to Florida court records. She received a five-year prison term, serving from 2008 to 2012.
“I know there will be people who are going to say: ‘You have a drug problem. Why should we believe you?’” she said of her decision to go public.“I know there will be people who are going to say: ‘You have a drug problem. Why should we believe you?’” she said of her decision to go public.
Just as the allegations against Cosby span generational shifts in attitudes about what constitutes out-of-bounds behaviour, they also span historic shifts in how information is disseminated. At the time when Traitz alleges Cosby assaulted her, there was no such thing as social media.Just as the allegations against Cosby span generational shifts in attitudes about what constitutes out-of-bounds behaviour, they also span historic shifts in how information is disseminated. At the time when Traitz alleges Cosby assaulted her, there was no such thing as social media.
But this month, two events compelled her to make a public statement. First, the comedian Hannibal Buress touched off a social-media frenzy by asking an audience at one of his shows to Google “Bill Cosby rapist”. Then, on 13 November, The Post published a first-person account by another accuser, Barbara Bowman. Traitz, furious about the attacks on Bowman and other Cosby accusers, posted her story on Facebook.But this month, two events compelled her to make a public statement. First, the comedian Hannibal Buress touched off a social-media frenzy by asking an audience at one of his shows to Google “Bill Cosby rapist”. Then, on 13 November, The Post published a first-person account by another accuser, Barbara Bowman. Traitz, furious about the attacks on Bowman and other Cosby accusers, posted her story on Facebook.
Singer, Cosby’s attorney, called Traitz “the latest example of people coming out of the woodwork with unsubstantiated or fabricated stories about my client”.Singer, Cosby’s attorney, called Traitz “the latest example of people coming out of the woodwork with unsubstantiated or fabricated stories about my client”.
He added: “There was no briefcase of drugs and the story is absurd.”He added: “There was no briefcase of drugs and the story is absurd.”
Victoria Valentino was living what appeared to be a version of the Hollywood dream. Playboy magazine picked her as Playmate of the Month for September 1963 when she was just 19. The next year, she helped open the original Playboy Club as a bunny on the Sunset Strip on new year’s eve.Victoria Valentino was living what appeared to be a version of the Hollywood dream. Playboy magazine picked her as Playmate of the Month for September 1963 when she was just 19. The next year, she helped open the original Playboy Club as a bunny on the Sunset Strip on new year’s eve.
But by the end of the decade, she had drifted away from those glitzy heights, she recalled in an interview with The Post. In September 1969, her six-year-old son, Tony, had drowned in a swimming pool. She battled a deep depression, she recalled.But by the end of the decade, she had drifted away from those glitzy heights, she recalled in an interview with The Post. In September 1969, her six-year-old son, Tony, had drowned in a swimming pool. She battled a deep depression, she recalled.
Francesca Emerson, a fellow bunny who befriended Valentino at the Playboy Club, sensed her despondency. Emerson had a plan to lift Valentino’s spirits. “I want you to meet my friend, Bill Cosby,” she said.Francesca Emerson, a fellow bunny who befriended Valentino at the Playboy Club, sensed her despondency. Emerson had a plan to lift Valentino’s spirits. “I want you to meet my friend, Bill Cosby,” she said.
Emerson and Cosby had hit it off at the Playboy Club. “He always gave me $100 (£64) tips, and he tried to get me to come down to the studio to read for his show, but I was always so nervous.”Emerson and Cosby had hit it off at the Playboy Club. “He always gave me $100 (£64) tips, and he tried to get me to come down to the studio to read for his show, but I was always so nervous.”
After Emerson lost her job at the club in 1968, she said, a chauffeur arrived at her home and handed her an envelope. Inside was $1,000 and a note. “This is for you so you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. Love, Cos,” Emerson said it read.After Emerson lost her job at the club in 1968, she said, a chauffeur arrived at her home and handed her an envelope. Inside was $1,000 and a note. “This is for you so you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. Love, Cos,” Emerson said it read.
“That’s the Bill Cosby I knew,” Emerson said. “He was a perfect gentleman.”“That’s the Bill Cosby I knew,” Emerson said. “He was a perfect gentleman.”
She said she introduced her “stunning” friend Valentino to Cosby in January 1970 at Cafe Figaro. Weeks later, she said, she met Cosby there again. Valentino said she was with her roommate, an aspiring actress named Meg Foster. She said Cosby offered to pay for massages for the women at a local spa and then sent a limousine to pick them up for dinner.She said she introduced her “stunning” friend Valentino to Cosby in January 1970 at Cafe Figaro. Weeks later, she said, she met Cosby there again. Valentino said she was with her roommate, an aspiring actress named Meg Foster. She said Cosby offered to pay for massages for the women at a local spa and then sent a limousine to pick them up for dinner.
Valentino said they had dinner at a restaurant where they ordered steaks and wine, and toward the end of dinner, Valentino said, Cosby offered her and Foster red pills.Valentino said they had dinner at a restaurant where they ordered steaks and wine, and toward the end of dinner, Valentino said, Cosby offered her and Foster red pills.
“He was trying to cheer me up, and he stuck a pill in my mouth,” she said. “He said, ‘This will make us all feel better.’” She and Foster each took a pill, and Cosby did, too, she said.“He was trying to cheer me up, and he stuck a pill in my mouth,” she said. “He said, ‘This will make us all feel better.’” She and Foster each took a pill, and Cosby did, too, she said.
“We were slurring words. I couldn’t function,” she recalled, adding that Cosby said he would take them home but instead drove them to an apartment in the hills above the Chateau Marmont hotel. Valentino said Cosby wanted to show them some memorabilia from I Spy.“We were slurring words. I couldn’t function,” she recalled, adding that Cosby said he would take them home but instead drove them to an apartment in the hills above the Chateau Marmont hotel. Valentino said Cosby wanted to show them some memorabilia from I Spy.
Once inside, Valentino said, Foster passed out. The room was spinning, and Valentino said she remembered feeling as if she was going to throw up. She said she saw Cosby sitting in a seat near Foster and she noticed that he had an erection.Once inside, Valentino said, Foster passed out. The room was spinning, and Valentino said she remembered feeling as if she was going to throw up. She said she saw Cosby sitting in a seat near Foster and she noticed that he had an erection.
“I reached out, grabbing him, trying to get his attention, trying to distract him,” Valentino said. “He came over to me and sat down on the seat and opened his fly and grabbed my head and pushed my head down. And then he turned me over. It was like a waking nightmare,” she said.“I reached out, grabbing him, trying to get his attention, trying to distract him,” Valentino said. “He came over to me and sat down on the seat and opened his fly and grabbed my head and pushed my head down. And then he turned me over. It was like a waking nightmare,” she said.
She protested but could not stop him, she said. Cosby slipped out alone, telling Valentino to call a cab if she wanted to go home, she said.She protested but could not stop him, she said. Cosby slipped out alone, telling Valentino to call a cab if she wanted to go home, she said.
Valentino said she never called the police. “What kind of credibility did I have?” she said. “In those days, it was always the rape victim who wound up being victimised. You didn’t want to go to the police. That’s the last thing you wanted to do back then.”Valentino said she never called the police. “What kind of credibility did I have?” she said. “In those days, it was always the rape victim who wound up being victimised. You didn’t want to go to the police. That’s the last thing you wanted to do back then.”
She was too embarrassed to tell most of her friends, but she did tell Emerson – the woman who had introduced her to Cosby.She was too embarrassed to tell most of her friends, but she did tell Emerson – the woman who had introduced her to Cosby.
Emerson, who lives in Australia, confirmed Valentino’s recollection in an interview with The Post.Emerson, who lives in Australia, confirmed Valentino’s recollection in an interview with The Post.
“I remember she said that he had drugged her and she came to and he was trying to rape Meg and she pulled him off,” Emerson said. “But I feel devastated that I didn’t do anything or say anything.”“I remember she said that he had drugged her and she came to and he was trying to rape Meg and she pulled him off,” Emerson said. “But I feel devastated that I didn’t do anything or say anything.”
Foster, an actress known for roles in TV shows such as Cagney and Lacey and movies including The Osterman Weekend, declined an interview request.Foster, an actress known for roles in TV shows such as Cagney and Lacey and movies including The Osterman Weekend, declined an interview request.
In 1996, Valentino was contacted by another former Playboy Playmate, Charlotte Kemp, Miss December 1982, who said she was writing a book called Centerfold Memories, due out in February.In 1996, Valentino was contacted by another former Playboy Playmate, Charlotte Kemp, Miss December 1982, who said she was writing a book called Centerfold Memories, due out in February.
In an interview, Kemp –whose real last name is Helmkamp – said she videotaped an interview with Valentino during which she talked about her alleged encounter with Cosby. Helmkamp said the account she gave matches the account Valentino provided to The Post.In an interview, Kemp –whose real last name is Helmkamp – said she videotaped an interview with Valentino during which she talked about her alleged encounter with Cosby. Helmkamp said the account she gave matches the account Valentino provided to The Post.
Valentino, now 71, said she decided to come forward after seeing Bowman’s allegations in The Post.Valentino, now 71, said she decided to come forward after seeing Bowman’s allegations in The Post.
“Every time I hear his name mentioned and see him getting an honorary doctorate and see him as this father figure, it makes me nauseated,” Valentino said. “It’s so humiliating. Forty-four years later it makes me feel shameful.”“Every time I hear his name mentioned and see him getting an honorary doctorate and see him as this father figure, it makes me nauseated,” Valentino said. “It’s so humiliating. Forty-four years later it makes me feel shameful.”
When contacted by The Post about Valentino’s allegations, Cosby’s attorney responded by issuing the broad denial to the recent accusations. Bill Cosby attends a graduation ceremony at Temple University, where he is a trusteeWhen contacted by The Post about Valentino’s allegations, Cosby’s attorney responded by issuing the broad denial to the recent accusations. Bill Cosby attends a graduation ceremony at Temple University, where he is a trustee
Tamara Green was in her early 20s when she met Cosby through a mutual friend, a Los Angeles doctor, she said. “He was king of the world,” Green said in an interview with The Post. “Full of himself..”Tamara Green was in her early 20s when she met Cosby through a mutual friend, a Los Angeles doctor, she said. “He was king of the world,” Green said in an interview with The Post. “Full of himself..”
When Green met Cosby – in 1969 or 1970, she said – she was doing some modelling and singing. Los Angeles felt like the host of one long, awesome party. Knowing Cosby made it even more awesome.When Green met Cosby – in 1969 or 1970, she said – she was doing some modelling and singing. Los Angeles felt like the host of one long, awesome party. Knowing Cosby made it even more awesome.
“We slept all day and were up all night,” Green said.“We slept all day and were up all night,” Green said.
It was a “very hippie-dippy, very free-love” time, Green said. The big shots in her circle of celebrity friends kept “stables of girls,” Green said. “They had a total disrespect for the girls.” But Green did not want to be Cosby’s girl. Green went to work for Cosby in the early 1970s, she said. She was supposed to be raising money from investors for a new club Cosby intended to open.It was a “very hippie-dippy, very free-love” time, Green said. The big shots in her circle of celebrity friends kept “stables of girls,” Green said. “They had a total disrespect for the girls.” But Green did not want to be Cosby’s girl. Green went to work for Cosby in the early 1970s, she said. She was supposed to be raising money from investors for a new club Cosby intended to open.
She called Cosby one day to say she was feeling sick and was going to go home. He told her she would feel better if she ate something and invited her to Cafe Figaro, she said. When she arrived, he gave her some red and grey pills, saying they were over-the-counter decongestants, she states.She called Cosby one day to say she was feeling sick and was going to go home. He told her she would feel better if she ate something and invited her to Cafe Figaro, she said. When she arrived, he gave her some red and grey pills, saying they were over-the-counter decongestants, she states.
Cosby drove Green home and she started to feel woozy, she said. “I remember him being all smarmy: ‘Let me help you take off all your clothes,’” she claims he stated.Cosby drove Green home and she started to feel woozy, she said. “I remember him being all smarmy: ‘Let me help you take off all your clothes,’” she claims he stated.
“I couldn’t control my body. I couldn’t run,” Green claims.  She went on to say: “He was naked. I was naked on my bed. His hands were all over me.”“I couldn’t control my body. I couldn’t run,” Green claims.  She went on to say: “He was naked. I was naked on my bed. His hands were all over me.”
Cosby penetrated her vagina with his fingers and fondled his penis in front of her, Green claims. She screamed in protest, she said. “You’re going to have to kill me,” she remembers telling him. But he would not stop, she said, until she managed to upend a lamp.Cosby penetrated her vagina with his fingers and fondled his penis in front of her, Green claims. She screamed in protest, she said. “You’re going to have to kill me,” she remembers telling him. But he would not stop, she said, until she managed to upend a lamp.
Cosby tossed down two $100 bills as he left, a gesture that Green took as a deep insult, she said. She did not think of herself as a girl who could be bought, but she felt helpless to do anything.Cosby tossed down two $100 bills as he left, a gesture that Green took as a deep insult, she said. She did not think of herself as a girl who could be bought, but she felt helpless to do anything.
She feared Cosby’s power. But there was another thing that she fretted about. Her young brother was dying from cystic fibrosis, and the day after the alleged incident, Cosby visited him at the children’s hospital where he was being treated, entertaining the other young patients, Green said. Her brother adored the star, and knowing Cosby garnered him extra attention from nurses in his final days, she said. She worried about jeopardising all that.She feared Cosby’s power. But there was another thing that she fretted about. Her young brother was dying from cystic fibrosis, and the day after the alleged incident, Cosby visited him at the children’s hospital where he was being treated, entertaining the other young patients, Green said. Her brother adored the star, and knowing Cosby garnered him extra attention from nurses in his final days, she said. She worried about jeopardising all that.
Green, now 66, went on to become an attorney and got married. She is retired in Southern California, where she grapples with Parkinson’s disease and with the echoes of that long-ago alleged incident. She said she is forever checking the perimeter of her home. She still sleeps in her clothes.Green, now 66, went on to become an attorney and got married. She is retired in Southern California, where she grapples with Parkinson’s disease and with the echoes of that long-ago alleged incident. She said she is forever checking the perimeter of her home. She still sleeps in her clothes.
Another Cosby attorney, Walter M Phillips Jr, called Green’s allegations “absolutely false”.Another Cosby attorney, Walter M Phillips Jr, called Green’s allegations “absolutely false”.
“Mr Cosby does not know the name Tamara Green or Tamara Lucier [her maiden name] and the incident she describes did not happen,” Phillips said in a statement. He said it was “irresponsible” to publish an “uncorroborated story of an incident that is alleged to have happened 30 years ago.”“Mr Cosby does not know the name Tamara Green or Tamara Lucier [her maiden name] and the incident she describes did not happen,” Phillips said in a statement. He said it was “irresponsible” to publish an “uncorroborated story of an incident that is alleged to have happened 30 years ago.”
Cosby’s legal team has also questioned Green’s credibility because her law licence was suspended in 2004. Green said that the suspension resulted from an overdraft related to her depositing a retainer check in the wrong account and that her licence was reinstated.Cosby’s legal team has also questioned Green’s credibility because her law licence was suspended in 2004. Green said that the suspension resulted from an overdraft related to her depositing a retainer check in the wrong account and that her licence was reinstated.
Cosby’s team has also used legal ethics issues to question the credibility of a more recent accuser who is now a lawyer – Louisa Moritz, an actress who appeared in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. On Thursday, Moritz told the website TMZ that Cosby forced her to have oral sex in a dressing room of The Tonight Show in 1971. Singer, Cosby’s attorney, questioned her credibility because she had been disciplined by the California State Bar last year in a dispute over a legal fee.Cosby’s team has also used legal ethics issues to question the credibility of a more recent accuser who is now a lawyer – Louisa Moritz, an actress who appeared in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. On Thursday, Moritz told the website TMZ that Cosby forced her to have oral sex in a dressing room of The Tonight Show in 1971. Singer, Cosby’s attorney, questioned her credibility because she had been disciplined by the California State Bar last year in a dispute over a legal fee.
In 1971, seven years after their wedding, Cosby’s wife, Camille, remained committed to making their marriage work despite the distractions of Hollywood. They had met on a blind date at a bowling alley in the spring of 1963. He was a 25-year-old comedian who was in Washington for a gig at the Shadows, a small club in Georgetown. She was a teenage University of Maryland student.In 1971, seven years after their wedding, Cosby’s wife, Camille, remained committed to making their marriage work despite the distractions of Hollywood. They had met on a blind date at a bowling alley in the spring of 1963. He was a 25-year-old comedian who was in Washington for a gig at the Shadows, a small club in Georgetown. She was a teenage University of Maryland student.
The parents of Camille Hanks worried she was too young. But the couple began a long-distance relationship when Cosby returned to New York. The next year, Camille dropped out of college and her parents reluctantly gave their blessing to their 19-year-old daughter’s marriage.The parents of Camille Hanks worried she was too young. But the couple began a long-distance relationship when Cosby returned to New York. The next year, Camille dropped out of college and her parents reluctantly gave their blessing to their 19-year-old daughter’s marriage.
Their move to Los Angeles as Cosby’s career rocketed in the mid and late-1960s required adjustments. “All of a sudden we were successful people,” Camille Cosby recalled in an interview with Stephanie Stokes Oliver of Essence. “All of a sudden we had money coming in, and it changed our lives.”Their move to Los Angeles as Cosby’s career rocketed in the mid and late-1960s required adjustments. “All of a sudden we were successful people,” Camille Cosby recalled in an interview with Stephanie Stokes Oliver of Essence. “All of a sudden we had money coming in, and it changed our lives.”
It’s unclear how much Camille knew about her husband’s alleged activities during the Los Angeles years. Six of the sexual abuse allegations against Cosby date to that period – Tarshis, Traitz, Green, Valentino and two other women: Carla Ferrigno, the future wife of Incredible Hulk star Lou Ferrigno, told KFI Radio that Cosby tried to assault her at his house in 1967. And Kristina Ruehli, now a 71-year-old grandmother, told Philadelphia magazine that she believes Cosby drugged her two years earlier and forced her to perform oral sex on him when she awoke.It’s unclear how much Camille knew about her husband’s alleged activities during the Los Angeles years. Six of the sexual abuse allegations against Cosby date to that period – Tarshis, Traitz, Green, Valentino and two other women: Carla Ferrigno, the future wife of Incredible Hulk star Lou Ferrigno, told KFI Radio that Cosby tried to assault her at his house in 1967. And Kristina Ruehli, now a 71-year-old grandmother, told Philadelphia magazine that she believes Cosby drugged her two years earlier and forced her to perform oral sex on him when she awoke.
By 1971, the couple decided they needed to make a change. Camille would move with their three children to Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, and Cosby would shuttle between Los Angeles, where he would continue working, and the new family home. Camille wanted to extract her family from the toxic Hollywood culture that may have facilitated her husband’s “selfish” behaviour, according to a biography of Cosby by former Newsweek managing editor Mark Whitaker.By 1971, the couple decided they needed to make a change. Camille would move with their three children to Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, and Cosby would shuttle between Los Angeles, where he would continue working, and the new family home. Camille wanted to extract her family from the toxic Hollywood culture that may have facilitated her husband’s “selfish” behaviour, according to a biography of Cosby by former Newsweek managing editor Mark Whitaker.
The move gave Cosby an opportunity to live a double life, Whitaker writes. In the East, Cosby was a family man studying for his PhD and raising money for Temple University scholarships.The move gave Cosby an opportunity to live a double life, Whitaker writes. In the East, Cosby was a family man studying for his PhD and raising money for Temple University scholarships.
In the West, he could revel in “self-indulgence,” Whitaker writes. Later, Cosby would have a long run of comedy shows in Las Vegas, still far from his family. “After his second show was done, he could often be found playing blackjack or craps into the wee hours, betting thousands of dollars as well-liquored men and flirtatious women egged him on,” Whitaker wrote.In the West, he could revel in “self-indulgence,” Whitaker writes. Later, Cosby would have a long run of comedy shows in Las Vegas, still far from his family. “After his second show was done, he could often be found playing blackjack or craps into the wee hours, betting thousands of dollars as well-liquored men and flirtatious women egged him on,” Whitaker wrote.
With his wife more than 3,000 miles away, Cosby began an affair with Shawn Berkes, a secretary he met at a Los Angeles nightclub. Berkes later confronted Cosby and said that she had given birth to his child.With his wife more than 3,000 miles away, Cosby began an affair with Shawn Berkes, a secretary he met at a Los Angeles nightclub. Berkes later confronted Cosby and said that she had given birth to his child.
The timing of that confrontation seems to coincide with a “turning point” at the 10-year mark in the Cosby marriage that was mentioned many years later by Camille in an interview. She told Oprah Winfrey that they had weathered some “selfish” behaviour but opted to recommit.The timing of that confrontation seems to coincide with a “turning point” at the 10-year mark in the Cosby marriage that was mentioned many years later by Camille in an interview. She told Oprah Winfrey that they had weathered some “selfish” behaviour but opted to recommit.
In a court case more than two decades after Cosby’s affair, he testified that he paid $100,000 to keep his extramarital relationship secret. Berkes’s daughter – Autumn Jackson, who was by then an adult – would serve a prison term for extortion.In a court case more than two decades after Cosby’s affair, he testified that he paid $100,000 to keep his extramarital relationship secret. Berkes’s daughter – Autumn Jackson, who was by then an adult – would serve a prison term for extortion.
By the 1970s, Cosby’s career had slowed. His 1972 comedy variety show lasted one season, and by 1974 he was turning to corporate advertising deals, including one that would define him almost as much as any television role he had played: serving as a television spokesman for Jell-O.By the 1970s, Cosby’s career had slowed. His 1972 comedy variety show lasted one season, and by 1974 he was turning to corporate advertising deals, including one that would define him almost as much as any television role he had played: serving as a television spokesman for Jell-O.
With his career in a lull, Cosby renewed his pledges to his family. When he turned 40 in 1977, he vowed to “cut back” his “playboy ways,” according to the Whitaker biography. He would focus on his family.With his career in a lull, Cosby renewed his pledges to his family. When he turned 40 in 1977, he vowed to “cut back” his “playboy ways,” according to the Whitaker biography. He would focus on his family.
Throughout Cosby’s 1989 book, Love and Marriage, he paints his wife as ruler of the roost, and has said he modelled the TV character of Clair Huxtable on Camille. But unlike Clair, a lawyer, for many years Camille did not have a career outside the home.Throughout Cosby’s 1989 book, Love and Marriage, he paints his wife as ruler of the roost, and has said he modelled the TV character of Clair Huxtable on Camille. But unlike Clair, a lawyer, for many years Camille did not have a career outside the home.
Their family life, however, was not the stuff of television sitcoms. Erinn Cosby, the family’s second-oldest daughter, was estranged from her father in the late 1980s. Bill Cosby told the Los Angeles Times: “She can’t come here. She’s not a person you can trust.” The family blamed the separation on drugs, which Erinn later denied. Cosby in 1973Their family life, however, was not the stuff of television sitcoms. Erinn Cosby, the family’s second-oldest daughter, was estranged from her father in the late 1980s. Bill Cosby told the Los Angeles Times: “She can’t come here. She’s not a person you can trust.” The family blamed the separation on drugs, which Erinn later denied. Cosby in 1973
Andrea Constand was stressed. She held down a big job at Temple University as operations director of the women’s basketball team. But she wanted career advice, according to court documents in a 2005 civil suit that Constand filed against Cosby. She decided to confide in a man who had not only become her close friend but was also Temple royalty.Andrea Constand was stressed. She held down a big job at Temple University as operations director of the women’s basketball team. But she wanted career advice, according to court documents in a 2005 civil suit that Constand filed against Cosby. She decided to confide in a man who had not only become her close friend but was also Temple royalty.
Cosby had attended Temple before dropping out in the early 1960s to pursue his comedy career, but he had remained in close contact with his hometown university, serving on the board of trustees since the early 1980s.Cosby had attended Temple before dropping out in the early 1960s to pursue his comedy career, but he had remained in close contact with his hometown university, serving on the board of trustees since the early 1980s.
Constand became friends with Cosby a year after her arrival on the Philadelphia campus in 2001. Constand became friends with Cosby a year after her arrival on the Philadelphia campus in 2001. 
In January 2004, the records state, Cosby invited her to his home in suburban Philadelphia. Constand alleges that Cosby offered her three blue pills. He said they were herbal medication and would relax her, according to her court filing; she hesitated but finally took his advice.In January 2004, the records state, Cosby invited her to his home in suburban Philadelphia. Constand alleges that Cosby offered her three blue pills. He said they were herbal medication and would relax her, according to her court filing; she hesitated but finally took his advice.
Within a short period of time, her “knees began to shake, her limbs felt immobile, she felt dizzy and weak, and she began to feel only barely conscious,” Constand’s attorneys wrote.Within a short period of time, her “knees began to shake, her limbs felt immobile, she felt dizzy and weak, and she began to feel only barely conscious,” Constand’s attorneys wrote.
Constand accused Cosby of leading her to a sofa, then touching “her breasts and vaginal area”. She said he “rubbed his penis against her hand, and digitally penetrated her,” the court records state.Constand accused Cosby of leading her to a sofa, then touching “her breasts and vaginal area”. She said he “rubbed his penis against her hand, and digitally penetrated her,” the court records state.
All the while, she “remained in a semi-conscious state,” her attorneys wrote.All the while, she “remained in a semi-conscious state,” her attorneys wrote.
Constand said she lost consciousness afterward until 4am, when she awoke “feeling raw in and around her vaginal area,” the court records state. Also, “her clothes and undergarments were in disarray,” according to the records.Constand said she lost consciousness afterward until 4am, when she awoke “feeling raw in and around her vaginal area,” the court records state. Also, “her clothes and undergarments were in disarray,” according to the records.
When she awoke, there was Cosby, she said. He was in his bathrobe, the court records state. She said she left.When she awoke, there was Cosby, she said. He was in his bathrobe, the court records state. She said she left.
According to court records, Cosby said he and Constand spent time together, but his attorneys denied the claims that he drugged and assaulted her. He said he had merely given her an over-the-counter antihistamine.According to court records, Cosby said he and Constand spent time together, but his attorneys denied the claims that he drugged and assaulted her. He said he had merely given her an over-the-counter antihistamine.
In Cosby’s account of  the evening during the court case, he denied appearing  in only his bathrobe and he said he gave her a “homemade muffin and a cup of hot  tea,” according to court records.In Cosby’s account of  the evening during the court case, he denied appearing  in only his bathrobe and he said he gave her a “homemade muffin and a cup of hot  tea,” according to court records.
Constand, now 41, went on to leave her job at Temple, moving back to her native Canada. One year later, in January 2005, she filed a complaint against Cosby with a police department in Ontario.Constand, now 41, went on to leave her job at Temple, moving back to her native Canada. One year later, in January 2005, she filed a complaint against Cosby with a police department in Ontario.
That complaint was followed by a criminal inquiry. Law enforcement officials interviewed Constand and Cosby. “I thought, in my gut, that she was telling the truth,” Bruce L. Castor Jr, the Montgomery County district attorney at the time, said in an interview. “I was absolutely certain that she believed that Cosby had taken advantage of her, but there were not enough details.”That complaint was followed by a criminal inquiry. Law enforcement officials interviewed Constand and Cosby. “I thought, in my gut, that she was telling the truth,” Bruce L. Castor Jr, the Montgomery County district attorney at the time, said in an interview. “I was absolutely certain that she believed that Cosby had taken advantage of her, but there were not enough details.”
In February 2005, he announced that he would not be prosecuting Cosby.In February 2005, he announced that he would not be prosecuting Cosby.
After the 2005 criminal case was resolved, Cosby resumed a tour he had put on hold when news of Constand’s allegations broke. But the next month, Cosby’s own actions were again scrutinised. And this time, it would not be just one woman pointing a finger at him.After the 2005 criminal case was resolved, Cosby resumed a tour he had put on hold when news of Constand’s allegations broke. But the next month, Cosby’s own actions were again scrutinised. And this time, it would not be just one woman pointing a finger at him.
Constand’s civil lawsuit, filed in 2005, would eventually include 13 “Jane Doe” women who agreed to testify. Green, who said Cosby had drugged her in the 1970s, had offered to testify without maintaining anonymity. All told, Green said she has spoken with 20 accusers; all of them, she said, asserted that they had been drugged by the comedian.Constand’s civil lawsuit, filed in 2005, would eventually include 13 “Jane Doe” women who agreed to testify. Green, who said Cosby had drugged her in the 1970s, had offered to testify without maintaining anonymity. All told, Green said she has spoken with 20 accusers; all of them, she said, asserted that they had been drugged by the comedian.
Constand’s attorneys were spotting patterns, too. In their court filings, they asserted that a common theme among the “Jane Doe” women was that “they were victimised after being conned by the Cosby image”.Constand’s attorneys were spotting patterns, too. In their court filings, they asserted that a common theme among the “Jane Doe” women was that “they were victimised after being conned by the Cosby image”.
In court documents, Cosby’s attorneys said their client “vigorously denies” her allegations that he “drugged her and sexually assaulted her” and “adamantly denies engaging in sexual misconduct”.In court documents, Cosby’s attorneys said their client “vigorously denies” her allegations that he “drugged her and sexually assaulted her” and “adamantly denies engaging in sexual misconduct”.
In November 2006, Constand and Cosby reached an undisclosed settlement. Constand and her attorney declined to be interviewed for this article.In November 2006, Constand and Cosby reached an undisclosed settlement. Constand and her attorney declined to be interviewed for this article.
Constand’s settlement largely made the Cosby story go away. There would be isolated reports, but the image of Cosby as an accused sex offender seemed destined to be relegated to a historical footnote until the jokes by Buress  went viral.Constand’s settlement largely made the Cosby story go away. There would be isolated reports, but the image of Cosby as an accused sex offender seemed destined to be relegated to a historical footnote until the jokes by Buress  went viral.
Since then, the names of nine more accusers have surfaced, including the model Janice Dickinson, who told Entertainment Tonight that Cosby drugged and raped her in Lake Tahoe in 1982.Since then, the names of nine more accusers have surfaced, including the model Janice Dickinson, who told Entertainment Tonight that Cosby drugged and raped her in Lake Tahoe in 1982.
Cosby’s attorneys rushed to keep pace with the allegations, repeatedly saying they had no merit. “Janice Dickinson’s story accusing Bill Cosby of rape is a complete lie,” Singer said in a statement.Cosby’s attorneys rushed to keep pace with the allegations, repeatedly saying they had no merit. “Janice Dickinson’s story accusing Bill Cosby of rape is a complete lie,” Singer said in a statement.
Three of the women who spoke to The Post – Traitz, Tarshis and Valentino – also made their first widely distributed public statements about the allegations this month.Three of the women who spoke to The Post – Traitz, Tarshis and Valentino – also made their first widely distributed public statements about the allegations this month.
©The Washington Post©The Washington Post