Bill Cosby won't 'dignify' decade-old sexual assault allegations

Bill Cosby will not dignify "decade-old, discredited" claims of sexual abuse with a response, his attorney said Sunday, the first reaction from the famed comedian to an increasing uproar over allegations that he assaulted several women in the past.

In a statement released to The Associated Press and posted online, lawyer John P. Schmitt said the fact that the allegations are being repeated "does not make them true."

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Cosbydoesn't intend to "dignify" the allegations with a comment,he said. Cosby thanked his fans for their "outpouring of support" and said he is doing his best work at the age of 77.

There has been a growing uproar over allegations that Cosby assaulted several women in the past.

It was harsh criticism of the veteran entertainer known equally for his charming standup comedy, ethnically groundbreaking 1984-92 NBC TV sitcom The Cosby Showand demands for personal responsibility directed at fellow African-Americans.

Barbara Bowman, an Arizona artist, repeated previously made claims against Cosby in a Washington Post editorial last week, alleging that Cosby "drugged and raped" her when she was younger. Bowman never approached police with her accusations, but did share her story with the media over the past 10 years.

Bowman was once asked to testify in a case where a Pickering, Ont., woman accused the comedian of assaulting her in 2004 after giving her sleeping pills. Cosby denied the claims and the case was settled out of court.

Cosby'supcoming appearance on CBS'sLate Show with David Lettermanwas cancelled amid the uproar. It was originally scheduled for next Wednesday.Another engagement onThe Queen Latifah Showon Oct. 30 was characterized by that show as a postponement granted at Cosby's request.

Schmitt's statement said "there will be no further statement from Mr. Cosby or any of his representatives."

Cosbyhas standup performances scheduled, including one Sunday night in Erie, Pa., and a special premiering Nov. 28 for Netflix. Cosby has been in talks with NBC for a new family sitcom, featuring Cosby as the patriarch. No air date has been announced.