Writer Sammie Mays speaks at a news conference announcing allegations against comedian Bill Cosby in New York, May 1, 2015. (Photo : Reuter)
Two more women, a writer and an actress, have come forward to accuse the comedian Bill Cosby of sexual assault, bringing the list of his accusers to more than 40.
Former "Cosby Show" actress Lili Bernard and writer Sammie Mayes claimed on Friday in a press conference held in New York City that the 77-year-old comedian had assaulted them in different instances, Reuter reported. The women were supported by lawyer Gloria Allred, who is also representing several other victims of the stand-up comedian.
During past few months, Cosby is facing a series of renewed allegations ranging from groping to rape by several women. The comedian is yet not charged in any of the case as these incidents date back to 1970s and 198os and thus stand out of statute of limitations.
However, this time Cosby possibly face some flak as Bernard has accused the comedian of rape in New Jersey, a state that does not have a statute of limitations on forceful sexual intercourse. If the actress file charges and is able to produce enough evidences, Cosby could be charged for the crime, Huffington Post reported.
In her statement, Bernard disclosed that after winning her trust and adoration in early 1990s, Cosby drugged and raped her mercilessly. The actress has also accused the aged comedian of intimidating her after the assault by threats. The actress declared that she still suffers from panic attacks and had suicidal thoughts after the incident.
During the press conference, Mayes also detailed her experience with the comedian duing 1980s when she visited him for an interview as a writer covering the NATPE convention in New Orleans. Cosby allegedly invited Mayes into her hotel room and spiked her drink. Mayes woke up the next day to find herself half undress and in an intoxicated state.
Meanwhile, Allred has called other victims of Cosby to come forward in order to build a more substantial case against the so-called predator. The new set of allegations have coincided with the last leg of Cosby's "Far From Finished" tour. The final performance is scheduled on May 2 in Atlanta where protestors are planning to march and demonstrate to show their support towards the victims of Cosby.
