Bill Cosby’s Legal Troubles Over Unpaid Damages

A jury awarded $59 million to Donna Motsinger earlier this year after finding Bill Cosby liable for a sexual assault that occurred in 1972. However, Motsinger now claims Cosby has not paid any of the damages. She is seeking to have Cosby held in contempt for ignoring a court order issued in October.

Joshua Wurtzel, a partner at Schlam Stone & Dolan LLP, explained that while the court could issue a warrant for Cosby’s arrest, it would not be for unpaid civil debts. Instead, it would address Cosby’s failure to comply with an order requiring him to disclose his assets.

The court might issue a warrant if Cosby ignores the order, requiring the sheriff to bring him in, said Wurtzel. The challenge arises if Cosby is outside California, as his extradition would depend on law enforcement’s willingness to act.

Legal expert Danny Rubin noted that Motsinger’s request for a debtor’s examination is a strategic move. A debtor’s exam forces the judgment debtor to disclose their total assets, Rubin explained. Failure to attend this exam could also lead to a warrant for Cosby’s arrest.

In March, Cosby was ruled liable for drugging and sexually assaulting Motsinger more than five decades ago. The judgment included $17.5 million for past mental trauma and $1.75 million for future suffering, alongside $40 million in punitive damages.

Despite the court’s order, Motsinger claims Cosby has not responded. She argues that his noncompliance could reveal his current financial status, offering insight into his remaining wealth. Jo-Anna Nieves, a criminal defense lawyer, mentioned that Cosby’s financial records and transactions could be subject to review.

Cosby’s financial situation could highlight whether his assets have diminished or shifted. The key question remains how much wealth he currently possesses and which assets are available to meet the judgment.

Motsinger is one of several women who have come forward with allegations against Cosby. Previously, Cosby was released from prison in 2021 after his 2018 conviction was overturned due to prosecutorial misconduct related to an earlier agreement.

Cosby continues to face legal issues with further accusations coming to light, including those from Judith Huth and Victoria Valentino. These cases emphasize the ongoing controversy surrounding Cosby’s actions and his attempts to evade financial responsibility.