Actor and comedian Bill Cosby has been charged with sexual assault over the alleged drugging and sexual assault of a woman at his home 12 years ago.
It is the first time Cosby, 78, has been charged with any offence after months of accusations.
Andrea Constand says she was drugged then assaulted at his Philadelphia home in 2004.
Cosby had mentored her via a university basketball program at Temple University in Philadelphia.
“Today, after examination of all the evidence, we are able to seek justice on behalf of the victim,” Kevin Steele, the newly elected district attorney for Montgomery County, told an earlier news conference.
Mr Steele had made a campaign issue of his intent to prosecute Cosby.
Dozens of women have accused Cosby of sexual assault, dating back to the 1970s, however he has denied any wrongdoing.
Earlier this month he opened a lawsuit against seven women, accusing them of defamation.
The judge set the bail at $1m however he did not enter a plea at the hearing.
