Smokey Robinson Faces Sexual Assault Allegations
Motown icon William “Smokey” Robinson is facing sexual assault and misconduct accusations from four women, identified as Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4, who previously worked as housekeepers for the Robinsons.
A complaint lodged on May 6 in Los Angeles Superior Court includes claims of sexual battery, false imprisonment, negligence, and gender violence. The plaintiffs are seeking $50 million in damages collectively.
The lawsuit also points to Robinson’s wife, Frances, alleging that he has violated labor laws by not paying minimum wages, failing to compensate for overtime, providing inaccurate wage statements, and creating a hostile work environment.
Robinson’s illustrious career began in 1955 when he formed the Motown group The Miracles. Over the decades, he amassed credits for over 4,000 songs, contributing to the success of artists like The Temptations and Marvin Gaye, and earned a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
According to a statement from attorney John Harris during a press conference, Robinson’s prominent status may have made it easier for the allegations to come forward. “They are Hispanic women hired by the Robinsons, who are under the minimum wage,” Harris noted. “As vulnerable, low-paid workers, they didn’t have the resources to protect themselves from such assaults.”
Harris emphasized the precarious situation of the accusers: “They all feared losing their jobs and not being able to pay rent or put food on the table for their families.”
The allegations have notable patterns, with claims that Jane Doe 1, 3, and 4 were assaulted in the “blue bedroom” at Robinson’s Chatsworth home, where precautions like laying out a towel were taken beforehand. Jane Doe 4’s account includes instances of rape at Robinson’s homes in Las Vegas and Bell Canyon. Jane Doe 2 asserts she was assaulted in the laundry room and garage of the Chatsworth residence, which lacked visible security cameras.
“I believe Mr. Robinson is a sick, serial rapist and we have to stop it,” Harris asserted.
All four women also address the hostile work environment fostered by Frances Robinson, claiming she employed what they describe as “ethnically charged language.” The complaint suggests she was unable to prevent her husband’s misconduct. “Despite being aware of his past sexual misconduct, he continued to engage in similar behavior and settled previous lawsuits with other women,” it states.
Attorney Herbert Hayden added, “We believe she knew about the wrongdoings caused by her husband and used their position to control the women.”
It is noteworthy that no police reports or criminal charges have been filed against Robinson at this time.
