Bill Cosby sues 7 women who accused him of rape

Boston — Bill Cosby is firing back at seven women who are suing him for defamation, accusing them of making false accusations of sexual misconduct for financial gain.

Cosby filed counterclaims in federal court on Monday, alleging the women made "malicious, opportunistic, and false and defamatory accusations" of sexual misconduct against him. Cosby is seeking unspecified monetary damages.

The women claim Cosby defamed them by allowing his representatives to brand them as liars after they went public with allegations of rape and other sexual misconduct dating back decades.

In his counterclaim, Cosby says the women have "engaged in a campaign to assassinate" his reputation and character. He says their campaign is "nothing more than an opportunistic attempt to extract financial gain from him."

The women suing Cosby in Massachusetts are among approximately 50 who have accused the comedian of rape or unwanted sexual contact.