Four women have accused Smokey Robinson of sexual abuse

Smokey Robinson, a legend in Motown, is being sued for $50 million for sexual assault by four former employees.

Motown icon Smokey Robinson is facing a $50 million lawsuit filed by four former female employees who allege a pattern of sexual assault, harassment, and workplace abuse spanning nearly two decades. The 85-year-old singer is accused of rape, sexual battery, false imprisonment, and maintaining a hostile work environment in the lawsuit, which was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court. Allegations Detailed in the Lawsuit

Jane Does 1 through 4 were the plaintiffs who worked as housekeepers and assistants in Robinson's homes in California and Las Vegas. They allege that between 2004 and 2024, Robinson subjected them to repeated sexual assaults, including coercion into unprotected sex and other non-consensual acts. One woman claims she was raped at least 20 times over a 12-year period.

The lawsuit also names Robinson's wife, Frances Gladney, as a co-defendant, accusing her of contributing to a hostile work environment through verbal abuse, excessive workloads, and denial of breaks. The plaintiffs allege that Gladney was aware of Robinson's misconduct but failed to intervene.

Plaintiffs' Background and Legal Representation

The women, who are said to be low-wage Hispanic workers, say that they were afraid of losing their jobs, the consequences for immigrant workers, and Robinson's celebrity. During the press conference that was used to announce the lawsuit, their attorney, John Harris, described Robinson as "a serial and sick rapist."

Robinson's Response

Robinson has denied the allegations, stating, "I am appalled," and declining further comment. Christopher Frost, his attorney, called the claims "vile and false" and described the lawsuit as an attempt to extort money. Frost indicated plans to seek dismissal of the case, criticizing the plaintiffs' attorneys for overstepping ethical bounds in public statements.

broader repercussions This lawsuit highlights the vulnerabilities faced by immigrant domestic workers, particularly regarding exploitation and abuse by employers. The case also raises questions about accountability and the protection of workers' rights within private households.

The case serves as a reminder of the significance of protecting the rights and well-being of all workers, regardless of their employment setting or the prominence of their employers, as the legal proceedings progress.

Motown legend Smokey Robinson is facing a $50 million lawsuit filed by four former female employees who allege a pattern of sexual assault, harassment, and workplace abuse spanning nearly two decades. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, accuses the 85-year-old singer of rape, sexual battery, false imprisonment, and maintaining a hostile work environment.

Allegations Detailed in the Lawsuit

The plaintiffs, identified as Jane Does 1 through 4, were employed as housekeepers and assistants in Robinson's residences in California and Las Vegas. They allege that between 2004 and 2024, Robinson subjected them to repeated sexual assaults, including coercion into unprotected sex and other non-consensual acts. One woman claims she was raped at least 20 times over a 12-year period.

The lawsuit also names Robinson's wife, Frances Gladney, as a co-defendant, accusing her of contributing to a hostile work environment through verbal abuse, excessive workloads, and denial of breaks. The plaintiffs allege that Gladney was aware of Robinson's misconduct but failed to intervene.

Plaintiffs' Background and Legal Representation

The women, described as Hispanic low-wage workers, claim they were discouraged from reporting the abuse due to fears of job loss, immigration consequences, and Robinson's celebrity influence. Their attorney, John Harris, characterized Robinson as "a serial and sick rapist" during a press conference announcing the lawsuit.

Robinson's Response

Robinson has denied the allegations, stating, "I am appalled," and declining further comment. His attorney, Christopher Frost, condemned the lawsuit as an extortion attempt, labeling the claims as "vile and false." Frost indicated plans to seek dismissal of the case, criticizing the plaintiffs' attorneys for overstepping ethical bounds in public statements.

Broader Implications

This lawsuit highlights the vulnerabilities faced by immigrant domestic workers, particularly regarding exploitation and abuse by employers. The case also raises questions about accountability and the protection of workers' rights within private households.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of all workers, regardless of their employment setting or the prominence of their employers.