Bill Cosby speaks out after prison release, says ‘I have always maintained my innocence’

Bill Cosby has spoken out to thank fans for their support after his sexual assault conviction was overturned.

The Cosby Show actor was released from prison on Wednesday after the Pennsylvania State Supreme Court sensationally decided to overturn his 2018 conviction for sexual assault following a highly-publicised trial.

Hours after he reunited with his loved ones, Cosby tweeted for the first time as a free man and said: ‘I have never changed my stance nor my story. I have always maintained my innocence.

‘Thank you to all my fans, supporters and friends who stood by me through this ordeal. Special thanks to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court for upholding the rule of law.’

He included a throwback photo of him throwing his fist in the air victoriously.

The 83-year-old was earlier pictured arriving at his home flanked by friends and flashing the peace sign at waiting photographers. However, the gravity of his release was felt as protesters made themselves present holding placards denouncing the court’s decision.

In 2018, Cosby was sentenced to 10 years in prison after being found guilty on three counts of aggravated indecent assault.

I have never changed my stance nor my story. I have always maintained my innocence.Thank you to all my fans, supporters and friends who stood by me through this ordeal. Special thanks to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court for upholding the rule of

Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court has now ruled that a non-prosecution deal his lawyers had struck with a previous district attorney in 2005 should have shielded him from charges.

Cosby had been in prison in Philadelphia for two years after being convicted of drugging and sexually assaulting a woman at his home in 2004. He had resisted sex offender programs during his incarceration, refusing to take part or acknowledge wrongdoing, even if it meant he would have to serve his full sentence.

The case stems from a 2004 encounter with Andrea Constand at Cosby’s estate near Philadelphia after meeting at the university where the actor served on the board of trustees and made frequent visits to campus.

Cosby had been accused of sexual misconduct by dozens of women, with allegations spanning from 1965 to 2008 which he has denied, but Constand’s allegations were the only ones that resulted in criminal charges.