Joan Tarshis, who accused Bill Cosby of assaulting her 50 years ago, files a lawsuit under the expiring New York law for sexual abuse victims.
Background of Lawsuit
Joan Tarshis, a New York resident, has filed a new lawsuit against Bill Cosby, alleging that he sexually assaulted her in 1969 or 1970. The lawsuit is based on the soon-to-expire New York law, which allowed victims of sexual abuse a one-year window to file claims that exceed time limits.
Allegations Against Cosby
Tarshis claimed that Cosby drugged and raped her during two separate encounters. She met Cosby through a mutual friend while he was starring in ‘The Bill Cosby Show.’
Cosby’s Response
Cosby’s spokesperson, Andrew Wyatt, did not comment on the specifics of Tarshis’s claims but expressed frustration, mentioning other celebrities recently sued under New York’s Adult Survivors Act.
History of Accusations
Cosby, 86, has faced more than 60 accusations of rape, sexual assault, and harassment. He was convicted in the #MeToo era, spent time in prison, but was released in 2021 after a higher court overturned the conviction.
Details of Lawsuit
The new lawsuit filed by Tarshis alleges assault, battery, emotional distress, and false imprisonment, seeking unspecified damages. It detailed the incidents where Tarshis was allegedly assaulted and feared for her life.
Other Allegations Under the Law
The Adult Survivors Act, under which the lawsuit is filed, is set to expire next week. It has also led to recent lawsuits against music executive L.A. Reid, Sean “Diddy” Combs, and Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler.