Smokey Robinson and Spouse Accused in $50 Million Lawsuit

Overview

LOS ANGELES – A recent lawsuit has surfaced against Motown icon Smokey Robinson and his wife, Frances Robinson, accusing them of serious charges including sexual battery and assault. The case, filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court, involves allegations from four unnamed women who previously worked as housekeepers at their home.

Details of the Lawsuit

The complaint, submitted on Tuesday, outlines a series of alleged offenses committed against these women. The plaintiffs are seeking $50 million in damages, claiming that the Robinsons engaged in sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, gender violence, and fostered a hostile work environment.

The attorneys representing the women allege that some incidents date back to 2012. During a press conference, attorney John Harris characterized Robinson as a “serial rapist and assaulter.”

Allegations and Employment History

According to the women’s attorneys, Robinson would often summon the housekeepers to a particular room described as the ‘blue bedroom’ where assaults allegedly took place. Details regarding their employment include:

• Jane Doe 1: Employed from January 2023 to February 2024.
• Jane Doe 2: Worked from May 2014 to February 2020.
• Jane Doe 3: Employed from February 2012 to April 2024.
• Jane Doe 4: Longest-serving housekeeper from October 2006 to April 2024.

All four women reportedly left their positions due to repeated sexual assaults, according to their legal counsel.

Statements from Attorneys

Harris elaborated on the circumstances faced by these women, emphasizing they are Hispanic and have worked as housekeepers while earning below minimum wage. He stated that their precarious financial situations and the celebrity status of Smokey Robinson significantly contributed to their vulnerability and lack of options for reporting the assaults:

“These women were all low wage earners living from paycheck to paycheck. They all feared missing a payday and not being able to pay their rent or buy food for their families. And also Smokey Robinson’s celebrity status intimidated them and all made them feel powerless.”

Frances Robinson’s Alleged Role

Alongside Smokey, Frances Robinson is also a defendant in the case. The attorneys allege that she was aware of the misconduct yet failed to intervene. Furthermore, they claim that she perpetuated a hostile working environment, reducing the housekeepers’ ability to take breaks or enjoy meals, thereby violating several labor laws.

Next Steps in the Legal Process

Currently, no police reports have been filed, and there has been no communication with the District Attorney’s Office regarding potential criminal charges. As of now, the Robinsons have not issued an official statement concerning the allegations.

Background on Smokey Robinson

At 85 years old, Smokey Robinson is renowned for numerous hits such as “My Girl,” “Tracks of My Tears,” and more. He has had a storied career as a singer, songwriter, and former Motown Records vice president, with a catalog exceeding 4,000 songs. His last album, titled “Gasms,” was released in 2023.

The Response

As the legal proceedings progress, the public awaits the Robinsons’ official response to the serious allegations put forth by the plaintiffs.