Four anonymous housekeepers have filed a $50 million lawsuit in Los Angeles against Smokey Robinson, accusing the renowned Motown artist of sexual assault and a range of labor violations. The 85-year-old is facing serious allegations, which include sexual battery, false imprisonment, negligence, and gender violence, all detailed in the complaint submitted to the superior court.
In addition to Robinson, the lawsuit also targets his wife, Frances Robinson, alleging her involvement in fostering a hostile work environment and utilizing "ethnically pejorative" language. As of now, the Robinsons have not publicly responded to these serious claims, and the accusations themselves remain unverified.
Historically, Smokey Robinson has been a pivotal figure in music, credited with numerous hits such as "My Girl" and "Tracks of My Tears." His extensive career has earned him spots in both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, alongside a prolific songwriting legacy attributed to over 4,000 songs.
The attorney for the plaintiffs, John Harris, highlighted the intimidation factor Robinson’s celebrity status instilled in his accusers, noting that they were Hispanic women earning below minimum wage. According to the claims, the four women—identified as Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4—report a variety of sexual assaults initiated by Robinson. They allege he summoned them to meet him at various properties in Chatsworth, Bell Canyon, and Las Vegas when his wife was absent.
The reported incidents include alarming details of sexual violence that allegedly started in 2006, with the plaintiffs claiming Robinson employed physical barriers and threats to prevent their escape during the assaults. Jane Doe 1, 3, and 4 recount experiences of sexual assault occurring in Robinson's residence, while Jane Doe 2 describes a separate incident in his laundry room.
In addition to the sexual misconduct allegations, the lawsuit raises multiple labor law violations, asserting that all four women frequently worked long hours without adequate compensation, including overtime and minimum wage stipulations. They each alleged that the toxic work environment led to their eventual resignations.
As of now, there have been no criminal charges or police reports filed regarding these allegations. The LAPD has stated that the claims are not under active review due to the absence of a formal case presented to them. The case again brings into focus the narratives surrounding power dynamics in the workspace, particularly within the entertainment industry.
In addition to Robinson, the lawsuit also targets his wife, Frances Robinson, alleging her involvement in fostering a hostile work environment and utilizing "ethnically pejorative" language. As of now, the Robinsons have not publicly responded to these serious claims, and the accusations themselves remain unverified.
Historically, Smokey Robinson has been a pivotal figure in music, credited with numerous hits such as "My Girl" and "Tracks of My Tears." His extensive career has earned him spots in both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, alongside a prolific songwriting legacy attributed to over 4,000 songs.
The attorney for the plaintiffs, John Harris, highlighted the intimidation factor Robinson’s celebrity status instilled in his accusers, noting that they were Hispanic women earning below minimum wage. According to the claims, the four women—identified as Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4—report a variety of sexual assaults initiated by Robinson. They allege he summoned them to meet him at various properties in Chatsworth, Bell Canyon, and Las Vegas when his wife was absent.
The reported incidents include alarming details of sexual violence that allegedly started in 2006, with the plaintiffs claiming Robinson employed physical barriers and threats to prevent their escape during the assaults. Jane Doe 1, 3, and 4 recount experiences of sexual assault occurring in Robinson's residence, while Jane Doe 2 describes a separate incident in his laundry room.
In addition to the sexual misconduct allegations, the lawsuit raises multiple labor law violations, asserting that all four women frequently worked long hours without adequate compensation, including overtime and minimum wage stipulations. They each alleged that the toxic work environment led to their eventual resignations.
As of now, there have been no criminal charges or police reports filed regarding these allegations. The LAPD has stated that the claims are not under active review due to the absence of a formal case presented to them. The case again brings into focus the narratives surrounding power dynamics in the workspace, particularly within the entertainment industry.
