Former Employees File Lawsuit Against Smokey Robinson Over Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
In a significant legal development, four former employees of Motown icon Smokey Robinson have initiated a lawsuit accusing the 85-year-old singer of sexual assault and numerous labor violations. The lawsuit, filed on May 6 in Los Angeles County Superior Court, alleges multiple counts including sexual battery, wrongful imprisonment, and creating a hostile work environment.
Allegations Against Smokey Robinson
The plaintiffs, who are identified in the lawsuit as Jane Doe 1 through 4, are reporting severe allegations of sexual misconduct, including acts of rape. The group comprises three former housekeepers and one individual who served as Robinson’s personal assistant, cook, and hairdresser. The lawsuit claims they were subjected to sexual advances from Robinson in various locations associated with the singer when his wife was not present.
Specific allegations detail times when Robinson supposedly appeared naked and coerced the plaintiffs into engaging in sexual acts, including vaginal, oral, and digital sex, occurring over several years.
Claims Against Frances Robinson
The lawsuit does not only target Smokey Robinson but also implicates his wife, Frances Robinson. The women allege that Frances regularly used derogatory language and maintained a hostile work environment, failing to intervene in her husband’s alleged behavior.
One plaintiff specifically noted her reluctance to report the incidents due to fears of losing her job and potential repercussions from the singer’s celebrity status. This sentiment was reportedly echoed by the other plaintiffs, highlighting a pervasive fear of retaliation.
Labor Violations and Employment Conditions
In addition to sexual misconduct, the lawsuit emphasizes various labor violations, including failure to pay minimum wage and overtime. The plaintiffs claim they were required to work extensive hours—ten hours a day for six days a week—without receiving appropriate compensation. Their hourly wages ranged from $10 to $20 over their periods of employment, significantly below California’s minimum wage, which has risen steadily since the plaintiffs began their roles.
Details of Employment
- Jane Doe 1: January 2023 to February 2024
- Jane Doe 2: May 2014 to February 2020
- Jane Doe 3: February 2012 to April 2024
- Jane Doe 4: October 2006 to April 2024
The plaintiffs assert that they each resigned due to the alleged abuses and toxic work environment and are now seeking damages. They are requesting a minimum of $50 million in compensation, in addition to punitive damages to be determined at trial.
Current Responses and Next Steps
As of the latest reports, representatives for Smokey Robinson and Frances Robinson have not publicly addressed the lawsuit. The plaintiffs’ legal team has not responded to requests for further comments regarding the case.
This lawsuit brings significant attention to issues of workplace safety, sexual misconduct, and employee rights within celebrity circles, indicating a growing willingness among individuals to speak out against alleged abuses of power.