Smokey Robinson has filed a $500 million defamation lawsuit against four former housekeepers who allege he sexually assaulted them, denouncing the claims as false. As the singer faces a separate criminal investigation, his legal team argues the accusations are an extortion scheme, while the women express fears of retaliation for coming forward.
Smokey Robinson Initiates $500 Million Defamation Lawsuit Against Sexual Assault Accusers
Smokey Robinson Initiates $500 Million Defamation Lawsuit Against Sexual Assault Accusers
The Motown legend claims his accusers fabricated allegations as part of an extortion attempt.
Motown icon Smokey Robinson has taken a firm stance against allegations of sexual assault by filing a colossal $500 million defamation lawsuit in California against four former housekeepers. The singer, alongside his wife Frances, characterizes the allegations as "false and extremely damaging," claiming they were part of a calculated "extortionate" scheme against him.
The legal action, initiated on Wednesday, highlights the disconnect between Robinson and his accusers—who are pursuing their own lawsuit under pseudonyms Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4. According to the plaintiffs' 27-page document, they allege incidents of sexual coercion dating back to 2006 and contend that they hesitated to come forward due to fears over potential job loss, familial backlash, and immigration issues.
Robinson's team has moved to dismiss the lawsuit filed by the housekeepers, arguing for the need to disclose their identities and labeling their claims as concocted. "The Robinsons did not abuse, harm, or take advantage of plaintiffs," the lawsuit asserts, depicting a history of friendship where the women enjoyed family holidays together.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has opened an investigation into the accusations, a move Robinson welcomed: "Exposure to the truth is a powerful thing," he stated. This legal and investigative battle unfolds as Robinson's storied career continues to shine, marked by his contributions to music including classic hits like "My Girl" and "Tears of a Clown."
As these events develop, the implications of the lawsuit and investigation spotlight critical discussions around the handling of sexual assault allegations, issues of anonymity, and the narrative of victimhood versus the claims of reputational damage.
