Smokey Robinson Accused of Sexual Assault in New Lawsuit Filed by Four Women

Smokey Robinson Accused of Sexual Assault by Four Women

Renowned musician Smokey Robinson is currently facing serious allegations of sexual assault from four former employees. The accusations, brought forth in a lawsuit filed at the Los Angeles Superior Court and obtained by PEOPLE, paint a disturbing picture of the former Motown record executive, now 85 years old. The women involved in the lawsuit have accused Robinson of sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, gender violence, and creating a hostile work environment during their employment under him.

The complaint also names Smokey’s wife, Frances Robinson, alleging that she had knowledge of his previous acts of sexual misconduct and failed to take appropriate action to prevent further incidents. The lawsuit claims that the assaults began as early as 2007 and continued over the years, creating a toxic work environment for the plaintiffs. The gravity of the allegations suggests a disturbing pattern of behaviour that the women felt they had no choice but to address legally.

One of the plaintiffs, identified as Jane Doe 1, has recounted her harrowing experience of repeated sexual assaults and harassment by Robinson that allegedly started in 2016. Another plaintiff, Jane Doe 3, worked as a housekeeper and reported incidents of sexual assault and harassment that eventually led to her resignation in 2024. The complaint outlines distressing details of Robinson’s behaviour, including instances of rape and coercion, which have understandably left a deep impact on the women involved.

The legal action seeks a minimum of $50,000,000 in damages to compensate for the harm caused to the plaintiffs. Further information is expected to be shared during a press conference scheduled to take place in downtown Los Angeles. The severity of the allegations has prompted requests for statements from Smokey Robinson, Frances Robinson, and their representatives, although responses are yet to be received.

The unfolding case sheds light on the importance of addressing allegations of misconduct in the workplace and the need for accountability, regardless of the individual’s status or reputation. The courage shown by the women in coming forward to seek justice serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination required to confront such serious issues. The legal proceedings that follow are crucial in ensuring that all parties involved have the opportunity to present their perspectives and evidence in a fair and transparent manner.

As the case continues to develop, it underscores the significance of supporting survivors of assault and harassment and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The impact of such allegations reaches far beyond the individuals directly involved, highlighting broader societal discussions around power dynamics, consent, and the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments for all. The legal system plays a vital role in addressing these complex issues and upholding principles of justice and equality for all members of society.

In conclusion, the accusations against Smokey Robinson point to a troubling reality of alleged abuse and misconduct within the music industry, emphasising the ongoing need for robust mechanisms to address and prevent such behaviour. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice and supporting those who come forward with their stories, in pursuit of a more equitable and safe working environment for all.