Smokey Robinson has filed a defamation lawsuit against four women who accused him of sexual assault, contending that the allegations are fabricated and aimed at extorting him. The singer maintains his innocence amid an ongoing criminal investigation.
Smokey Robinson Launches $500M Defamation Suit Against Sexual Assault Accusers
Smokey Robinson Launches $500M Defamation Suit Against Sexual Assault Accusers
The Motown icon seeks to clear his name after being accused of sexual misconduct by former employees.
Motown legend Smokey Robinson is taking legal action, filing a $500 million defamation lawsuit against four former housekeepers who allege that he sexually assaulted them. The complaint, filed by Robinson and his wife Frances in California on Wednesday, claims that the accusations are "false and extremely damaging" to his reputation.
According to the lawsuit, the unnamed accusers, who filed their claims under pseudonyms Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4 in a Los Angeles Superior Court on May 6, manufactured the allegations as part of an "extortionate" scheme. The Robinsons contend that they have a history of kindness and generosity towards the women, who have previously accompanied them on family vacations and holiday celebrations.
While Robinson denies the allegations, he is also facing a criminal investigation over the same accusations, which he has welcomed, stating, "exposure to the truth is a powerful thing." His attorney argues that the four women, all of Hispanic descent, have unjustly sought anonymity in their claims, and have caused significant harm to his career and personal life.
The women reported incidents dating back to 2006, alleging that Robinson coerced them into sexual acts while working for him. They expressed that fear of losing their jobs, family backlash, or social embarrassment had prevented them from coming forward sooner; some even mentioned worries about potential immigration ramifications.
The women are demanding at least $50 million in damages and request a jury trial. The legal battles and the ongoing criminal investigation place the 85-year-old singer, known for hits such as "My Girl" and "Tears of a Clown," in a difficult position as he seeks to preserve his legacy amidst these serious allegations. Robinson's extensive contributions to the music industry are well-documented, and he holds esteemed positions in both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
