Prime News Ghana

Bill Cosby case: Judge declares mistrial after jury deadlock

By Clement Edward Kumsah
billy_cosby
The actor was seen smiling as he arrived at the courthouse on Saturday
Shares
facebook sharing button Share
twitter sharing button Tweet
email sharing button Email
sharethis sharing button Share

A judge has declared a mistrial in the Bill Cosby sex assault case, after the jury was deadlocked for a second time.

The seven men and five women were unable to reach a unanimous decision, following more than 50 hours of deliberations.

Mr Cosby, 79, is accused of drugging and sexually assaulting Andrea Constand in 2004. His lawyers had argued the sex was consensual.

The US comedian could face new proceedings.
For now, he walks way from court a free man, but the prosecution has already said they are pursuing a fresh trial.

Mr Cosby could have faced up to a decade in prison if found guilty of three counts of aggravated indecent assault.

Dozens of women say he assaulted them, but statutes of limitation rules mean he was allowed to be tried for Ms Constand's allegation only.

Announcing the decision, the Pennsylvania judge reminded Mr Cosby that he remains charged and on bail, despite the mistrial.

 

Credit: BBC