The lawsuits filed represent a significant confrontation between the legendary artist and his accusers, amidst ongoing criminal investigations.
Smokey Robinson Launches $500 Million Defamation Suit Against Sexual Assault Accusers
Smokey Robinson Launches $500 Million Defamation Suit Against Sexual Assault Accusers
Motown icon Smokey Robinson firmly denies allegations, labeling them as damaging and fabricated.
Motown legend Smokey Robinson has initiated a staggering $500 million (£370 million) defamation lawsuit against four former housekeepers who have leveled accusations of sexual assault against him. The legal action, launched by Robinson and his wife Frances in California, claims the allegations are both fabricated and aimed at extorting money.
In the lawsuit, the Robinsons stated that the women who filed their claims anonymously had previously traveled with the couple on family vacations and celebrated holidays together. Robinson maintains that he has not engaged in any wrongdoing and asserts, through his legal team, that the accusations stem from a desire for financial gain rather than truth.
Accompanied by turmoil, Robinson, who is currently facing a separate criminal investigation in Los Angeles related to these allegations, has adamantly denied them. His legal representatives have also filed a motion to dismiss the plaintiffs’ lawsuit, criticizing the decision to allow anonymity in their claims. The legal document asserts: “The Robinsons did not abuse, harm, or take advantage of plaintiffs; they treated plaintiffs with the utmost kindness and generosity.”
The women involved, who are using the pseudonyms Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4, filed their claims in Los Angeles Superior Court on May 6. Their 27-page legal action cites multiple alleged incidents stretching back to 2006, with claims that they were pressured into non-consensual sexual encounters. Fearing potential backlash or negative consequences, including threats to their jobs and immigration status, they have only now come forward.
Seeking at least $50 million (£38 million) in damages, the plaintiffs are also pursuing a jury trial. In response to the women’s allegations, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has since opened an investigation, which Robinson expressed welcome for, stating, “exposure to the truth is a powerful thing.”
Known for his pivotal role at Motown, Robinson is celebrated as a songwriter and artist, with classic hits to his name such as "My Guy" and "My Girl." His contributions to music have earned him spots in both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, boasting credits on over 4,000 songs throughout his illustrious career.
