Iconic comedian Bill Cosby arrived at the Montgomery County Courthouse early this morning to begin his trial on charges that he drugged and assaulted former Temple University employee Andrea Constand at his Philadelphia home in 2004. Cosby was joined by Keshia Knight Pulliam, his young co-star from the hit television show “The Cosby Show” arm in arm in a show of support.
The start of the trial for Cosby, who was dubbed “America’s Dad” for a legendary career of entertainment and education has rocked the nation. Cosby admitted to a string of extramarital affairs that spanned decades. In addition, Cosby, who was an anti-drug advocate, admitted in court depositions that he used the prescription drug Quaalude on a regular basis when engaging in some of his encounters. Cosby will have a jury composed of 10 White jurors and two Black jurors who will hear the allegations.
The prosecution intends to show a pattern of predatory sexual behavior that stretches back decades with dozens of women who have come forward with allegations against Cosby. Although evidence will be presented about these encounters those allegations are not what Cosby is on trial for facing up to 10 years in prison. At issue is whether or not he sexually assaulted Andrea Constand.
Among those expected to testify are the following:
- Prior alleged victim No. 6: Also known by the pseudonym Kacey, is the only one of the other accusers who can testify. A former assistant to Cosby’s late agent, she alleges that in 1996, after Cosby insisted she take a pill, she woke up in bed with the half-naked entertainer.
- An unnamed William Morris Agency employee who the defense contends can contradict Kacey’s account of her interaction with Cosby.
- A psychologist who will discuss the behavior of sex-abuse victims. Prosecutors may use her testimony to try to explain why Constand waited a year to report the alleged assault to police.
- Pharmaceutical experts who will testify about the effects of Benadryl and Quaaludes, the latter of which Cosby has admitted he gave to women prior to sex in the 1970s.
Cosby, who is now legally blind, is not expected to testify during the trial. He maintains that he is innocent of all charges and that any sexual contact he had with his accusers was all consensual.
