NY judge rejects Cosby’s request to get journalists’ notes

NEW YORK – A New York judge has rejected what he calls Bill Cosby’s “fishing expedition” to get journalists’ notes, film and audio to fight a defamation lawsuit filed against him by seven women.

Federal Judge Paul Gardephe (GAHR’-dih-fee) ruled Tuesday.

He says Cosby’s request to force New York Magazine to turn over notes, video and audio from interviews it conducted with six women bordered on the frivolous.

The interviews came as the magazine was preparing a July 2015 piece titled “I’m No Longer Afraid.” The article featured 35 women who described being sexually assaulted by the comedian.

Cosby’s lawyers were planning to use the material to find inconsistencies in statements by six of seven women who filed a defamation lawsuit against him in Boston.

Cosby’s lawyer declined to comment after Gardephe ruled.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.