Los Angeles, CA – Legendary singer Smokey Robinson has initiated a staggering $500 million (£370 million) defamation lawsuit against four former employees who have accused him of sexual assault. The lawsuit, filed by Robinson and his wife, Frances, asserts that the allegations are both "false and extremely damaging," claiming that the accusations stem from a scheme orchestrated to extort money from the star.
The legal action, which was submitted on Wednesday in California, alleges that the women filed their complaints anonymously while engaging in personal friendships with the Robinsons, including sharing family vacations and holidays. Robinson, currently embroiled in a criminal investigation in Los Angeles over the allegations, vehemently denies any wrongdoing, with his lawyer suggesting ulterior motives behind the accusations.
“We believe that the accusations put forth by the plaintiffs are completely fabricated,” stated Robinson's attorney, highlighting that the plaintiffs were treated with kindness and respect. A motion has also been filed to dismiss the women's lawsuit, arguing the basis for their anonymity should not have been granted.
The women, referred to in court documents as Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4, first brought their allegations to light in a filing with the Los Angeles Superior Court on May 6, claiming that incidents of sexual pressure date back to 2006. They expressed that fear of reprisal, job loss, and potential immigration issues kept them silent until now.
Seeking at least $50 million (£38 million) in damages along with a jury trial, the women’s credibility is central to the unfolding case. In response to the ongoing investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, which Robinson has welcomed, he emphasized a commitment to reveal the truth.
Renowned for his pioneering influence in the music industry, Robinson is celebrated for profound hits that include "My Guy" and "My Girl," and boasts credentials in the Rock & Roll and Songwriters Halls of Fame. Furthermore, he is credited with contributions to more than 4,000 songs.
As the legal battles unfold, attention remains focused on the claims and defenses between one of music's most beloved figures and the accusers.
The legal action, which was submitted on Wednesday in California, alleges that the women filed their complaints anonymously while engaging in personal friendships with the Robinsons, including sharing family vacations and holidays. Robinson, currently embroiled in a criminal investigation in Los Angeles over the allegations, vehemently denies any wrongdoing, with his lawyer suggesting ulterior motives behind the accusations.
“We believe that the accusations put forth by the plaintiffs are completely fabricated,” stated Robinson's attorney, highlighting that the plaintiffs were treated with kindness and respect. A motion has also been filed to dismiss the women's lawsuit, arguing the basis for their anonymity should not have been granted.
The women, referred to in court documents as Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4, first brought their allegations to light in a filing with the Los Angeles Superior Court on May 6, claiming that incidents of sexual pressure date back to 2006. They expressed that fear of reprisal, job loss, and potential immigration issues kept them silent until now.
Seeking at least $50 million (£38 million) in damages along with a jury trial, the women’s credibility is central to the unfolding case. In response to the ongoing investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, which Robinson has welcomed, he emphasized a commitment to reveal the truth.
Renowned for his pioneering influence in the music industry, Robinson is celebrated for profound hits that include "My Guy" and "My Girl," and boasts credentials in the Rock & Roll and Songwriters Halls of Fame. Furthermore, he is credited with contributions to more than 4,000 songs.
As the legal battles unfold, attention remains focused on the claims and defenses between one of music's most beloved figures and the accusers.
