Motown icon Smokey Robinson and his wife Frances have initiated a high-stakes defamation case, seeking $500 million against four former housekeepers who accused him of sexual assault, labeling their claims as fabricated and extortionate.
Smokey Robinson Launches $500 Million Defamation Suit Against Sexual Assault Accusers
Smokey Robinson Launches $500 Million Defamation Suit Against Sexual Assault Accusers
The legendary singer claims the allegations are false and aimed at extorting money.
In a move that has garnered significant media attention, Smokey Robinson, the renowned Motown artist, has filed a massive $500 million (approximately £370 million) defamation lawsuit against four of his former housekeepers who have accused him of sexual assault. The lawsuit, submitted in California, is described by Robinson and his wife Frances as a response to what they consider "false and extremely damaging" allegations.
The accusers filed their claims anonymously in Los Angeles Superior Court back in May and have alleged multiple incidents of sexual assault dating back to 2006. They stated that Robinson exerted pressure for sexual favors, saying they refrained from reporting the incidents due to fears of job loss, familial repercussions, and embarrassment, as well as concerns about their immigration status.
Robinson, who is currently facing a criminal investigation over these accusations, has maintained his innocence and denied all claims made against him. His attorney contends that the women are motivated by financial gain rather than truth, as they were previously treated with "the utmost kindness and generosity" by the Robinsons.
In addition to seeking financial damages, the women are requesting a jury trial amounting to a minimum of $50 million (£38 million). Robinson has also filed a motion to dismiss the allegations, contesting the anonymity granted to the plaintiffs.
The ongoing investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has contributed to the complexity of the case, with Robinson expressing his willingness to cooperate, stating, "exposure to the truth is a powerful thing."
Aside from these legal troubles, Smokey Robinson is celebrated as a pivotal figure in the Motown sound, known for creating hits like "My Girl" and “Tracks of My Tears.” He has earned placements in both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, boasting contributions to over 4,000 songs throughout his career. As this story unfolds, it continues to capture the public's attention and raise questions around the allegations and the legal proceedings that follow.
The accusers filed their claims anonymously in Los Angeles Superior Court back in May and have alleged multiple incidents of sexual assault dating back to 2006. They stated that Robinson exerted pressure for sexual favors, saying they refrained from reporting the incidents due to fears of job loss, familial repercussions, and embarrassment, as well as concerns about their immigration status.
Robinson, who is currently facing a criminal investigation over these accusations, has maintained his innocence and denied all claims made against him. His attorney contends that the women are motivated by financial gain rather than truth, as they were previously treated with "the utmost kindness and generosity" by the Robinsons.
In addition to seeking financial damages, the women are requesting a jury trial amounting to a minimum of $50 million (£38 million). Robinson has also filed a motion to dismiss the allegations, contesting the anonymity granted to the plaintiffs.
The ongoing investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has contributed to the complexity of the case, with Robinson expressing his willingness to cooperate, stating, "exposure to the truth is a powerful thing."
Aside from these legal troubles, Smokey Robinson is celebrated as a pivotal figure in the Motown sound, known for creating hits like "My Girl" and “Tracks of My Tears.” He has earned placements in both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, boasting contributions to over 4,000 songs throughout his career. As this story unfolds, it continues to capture the public's attention and raise questions around the allegations and the legal proceedings that follow.
