[Magdalen] Cosby.

[cantor03 at aol.com]

I was never a fan of Bill Cosby as a stand-up comic, and never, ever
watched his sit-com series.  I thought he was terribly overrated, and
wasn't worth what he was apparently earning.  
 
His wealth at the height of his career in the 70's and 80's was
confirmed for me on a trip with some friends into NYC for the
annual New York Antique Show, showcasing English and
American antiques of the 18th and early 19th centuries.
It so happens Cosby is a collector of pieces from this period, 
and he had literally bought out the entire show.  Everything
seemed to have a red tag indicating "Sold to Bill Cosby."
And these antiques in question were each $75,000 - $100,000.
 
Then there is this awful side of him with the army of women
surfacing with accusations of rape and assault.  How completely
out of character for this "father figure."  I thoroughly understand
the horrible wounds these women suffer, and in no way feel
their plight should be overlooked.  I totally sympathize.
 
Am I alone, though, in feeling that his apparent punishment
is somewhat excessive?  I understand the breakthrough
in the area of women's issues this case demonstrates and
the need for retribution many feel appropriate.
 
But the investigations and now trials have completely ruined his
reputation for all time, and he, too, must suffer constant 
embarrassment wherever he goes.
 
He is in his 80's now, and near as I can determine is LEGALLY 
BLIND!  He can differentiate light and dark,
but must walk on the arm of a sighted person in public.
 
How much punishment is enough?
 
 
 
David S.