Smokey Robinson known for his timeless musical hits. The legendary Motown singer and record producer has released many bangers including, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” (1962) and “Cruisin’” (1979). However, the singer is currently under fire due to some heinous allegations. Smokey Robinson sexual assault allegations are a bit of a surprise, considering the singer turned 85 years old earlier this year.
View this post on Instagram
On May 6th of this year, four of Smokey Robinson’s housekeepers filed a civil lawsuit against the singer. They are accusing him of multiple charges, including sexual assault and gender violence. While the accusers decided to stay anonymous, this is what we know about the case so far.
The Accusers
All four of the accusers were housekeepers, so they had plenty of experience and alone time with the singer. They claim to have worked 10 hour days while being paid less than minimum wage, and no overtime pay. Their lawyer, John Harris stated, “They’re Hispanic women who were employed by the Robinsons earning below minimum wage… As low-wage women in vulnerable positions, they lacked the resources and options necessary to protect themselves from sexual assaults.” The housekeepers said that it was a very hostile work environment, even going as far as to say that Robinson’s wife contributed to the hostility.
All of the victims claim to have been assaulted in Robinson’s “blue room,” where he’d lay down a towel to keep the bed sheets clean when the assaults happened. They say that when they tried to get away, Robinson would threaten them, and even go as far as to make them physically unable to leave the premises. One of the victims also claims to have been assaulted in the laundry room and garage in the blind spot of any cameras. The lawsuit claims that these assaults have been happening since 2006.
Another important part of this case is that all of the housekeepers are of Hispanic decent. Because of this, they were likely afraid to come forward due to issue with immigration and deportation. They were also reluctant to come forward in fear of the embarrassment and life changes that would follow. The women are looking to receive $50 million from Robinson and are seeking a trial with a jury (BBC).
Robinson’s Side
Robinson hasn’t said too much about the case, but has denied all of the accusations. He claims that the only reason an investigation is being done in the first place is because the women are after his money and want to run his name through the dirt. In a statement to BBC, his attorney Christopher Frost said they are perfectly comfortable with a police investigation “because exposure of the truth is a powerful thing.”
It is important to note that Robinson was accused of sexual assault back in 2015. However, due to lack of evidence, there were no charges.
Smokey Robinson has filed a $500 million lawsuit for defamation and other charges against the alleged victims and their lawyers.
May justice be served.
