Robinson claims the accusations are part of an extortion scheme and seeks to defend his reputation.
Smokey Robinson Launches $500 Million Defamation Lawsuit Against Alleged Sexual Assault Accusers
Smokey Robinson Launches $500 Million Defamation Lawsuit Against Alleged Sexual Assault Accusers
The Motown icon fights back against allegations he deems fabricated and harmful.
Los Angeles - Motown legend Smokey Robinson has filed a colossal $500 million (£370 million) defamation lawsuit against four former housekeepers who have accused him of sexual assault. The legal action, initiated by Robinson and his wife Frances in California on Wednesday, accuses the alleged victims of fabricating claims as part of an "extortionate" agenda.
The couple argues that the women, who have remained anonymous in their claims, not only spent family holidays with the Robinsons but also shared celebratory moments together. Robinson, who is currently facing a separate criminal investigation regarding the allegations, firmly denies all accusations, asserting that the women are maliciously pursuing his wealth.
The lawsuit seeks to dismiss the women's case, asserting that the anonymity granted to them by the court is unwarranted. The legal documents state, "The Robinsons did not abuse, harm, or take advantage of plaintiffs; they treated plaintiffs with the utmost kindness and generosity." The women, identified in court as Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4, filed their lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court on May 6, claiming multiple incidents stemming back to 2006 in which they allege Robinson pressured them into sexual relationships.
The plaintiffs, all of Hispanic descent, reported hesitating to share their experiences due to fears of career repercussions, family impact, or public stigma, with some concerned about the potential implications for their immigration status. They are pursuing at least $50 million (£38 million) in damages and have requested a jury trial.
Following the filing, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department initiated an inquiry into the matter. Robinson expressed support for the investigation, believing that "exposure to the truth is a powerful thing." The 85-year-old musician boasts a legacy as Motown's inaugural hitmaker, responsible for classics such as "My Girl" and "Tracks of My Tears." He is celebrated in both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, with credits on over 4,000 songs.
The couple argues that the women, who have remained anonymous in their claims, not only spent family holidays with the Robinsons but also shared celebratory moments together. Robinson, who is currently facing a separate criminal investigation regarding the allegations, firmly denies all accusations, asserting that the women are maliciously pursuing his wealth.
The lawsuit seeks to dismiss the women's case, asserting that the anonymity granted to them by the court is unwarranted. The legal documents state, "The Robinsons did not abuse, harm, or take advantage of plaintiffs; they treated plaintiffs with the utmost kindness and generosity." The women, identified in court as Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4, filed their lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court on May 6, claiming multiple incidents stemming back to 2006 in which they allege Robinson pressured them into sexual relationships.
The plaintiffs, all of Hispanic descent, reported hesitating to share their experiences due to fears of career repercussions, family impact, or public stigma, with some concerned about the potential implications for their immigration status. They are pursuing at least $50 million (£38 million) in damages and have requested a jury trial.
Following the filing, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department initiated an inquiry into the matter. Robinson expressed support for the investigation, believing that "exposure to the truth is a powerful thing." The 85-year-old musician boasts a legacy as Motown's inaugural hitmaker, responsible for classics such as "My Girl" and "Tracks of My Tears." He is celebrated in both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, with credits on over 4,000 songs.
