Cosby takes stage despite protest over sex assault claims

DENVER (AP) ― About 100 protesters chanting “Rape is not a joke!” and “No means no!” protested outside a theater in Denver before comedian Bill Cosby took the stage on Saturday.

Shortly before his performance at the Buell Theatre, one woman held a news conference at a hotel in the city to accuse him of sexually assaulting her in 1986.

Beth Ferrier said during the gathering called by Los Angeles attorney Gloria Allred that Cosby put drugs in her coffee when she went to see one of his shows in Denver. She said the next thing she remembered was waking up hours later in the back of her car “practically naked.”

Ferrier has said previously she was assaulted by Cosby. Ferrier went public on June 23, 2005, alleging that as a model in New York in 1984, she met Cosby and they had a brief affair.

The 77-year-old comedian is facing sexual assault accusations from at least 15 women, with some of the claims dating back decades. He has denied the allegations through his attorney and has never been charged with a crime.

Cosby is slated for two shows in Denver on Saturday night amid the protests.

On Friday, Cosby performed at a packed show in Pueblo. About 25 demonstrators gathered outside that show, chanting “no means no” and “Colorado believes the women.”

But inside the venue, the crowd warmly welcomed Cosby. Making his first appearance in Pueblo since a 1996 show at the Colorado State Fair, he was embraced by a mostly middle-aged and older crowd.

On Thursday, Cosby released a statement thanking his fans and saying he’s ready to perform in Colorado.

“I have thousands of loyal, patient and courageous fans that are going to leave their homes to enjoy an evening of laughter and return home feeling wonderful,” he said. “I’m ready!”

He finished his statement with references to his “Fat Albert” character’s trademark line and to his 2013 television special ― “Hey, Hey, Hey ― I’m Far From Finished.”

On Wednesday, a model who claims Cosby drugged and sexually abused her at the Playboy Mansion in 2008 met with Los Angeles police to pursue criminal charges.

Chloe Goins’ attorney said that his client is the first woman accusing Cosby of sexual misconduct whose case may fall within the statute of limitations.

Cosby’s attorney, Martin D. Singer, said Friday the comedian was in New York the night Goins claims she was accosted.

Cosby is scheduled to continue his tour Sunday in Turlock, California.