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Cosby Demands Accuser Testify Before Trial

In a motion filed Wednesday, Cosby's lawyers said he had a right to confront Andrea Constand, who alleges he assaulted her in 2004.
Image: Criminal charges against Bill Cosby in Pennsylvania
Bill Cosby departs the Montgomery County Courthouse in Norristown, Pennsylvania on May 24, 2016 after a preliminary hearing regarding charges stemming from an alleged sexual assault in 2004.Pool / via EPA

Bill Cosby is again seeking to appeal his sex assault case, arguing that his accuser should testify at a hearing before the case goes to trial.

In a motion filed Wednesday in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, Cosby's attorney argued that the failure of Andrea Constand to testify violates due process because Cosby was not able to confront his accuser.

"It is quite clear that existing precedent compels the conclusion that Mr. Cosby should now be permitted to do the same," said the motion.

Constand alleges that Cosby assaulted her in 2004. At a May hearing, a judge ordered Cosby to stand trial.

District Judge Elizabeth McHugh found probable cause after portions of the police statement from accuser Andrea Constand were read in court. Constand was not required to testify and was not in court.

Cosby, 78, faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The judge's decision marks a stunning turn of events for the once-beloved sitcom star, who thus far had avoided trial.

His defense team had argued the case — the only criminal case amid dozens of accusations — shouldn't be tried.