4 housekeepers accuse Smokey Robinson of sexual assault

Legendary Motown artist Smokey Robinson is facing a significant legal challenge. Four anonymous women, who previously worked as housekeepers for the singer, have filed a $50 million lawsuit alleging years of sexual assault and a hostile work environment.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Tuesday, includes claims of sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, and gender violence. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred at Robinson's home in Chatsworth, Los Angeles, spanning from as early as 2007 through 2024.

Additionally, the complaint names Robinson's wife, Frances Robinson, alleging she was aware of the abuse and contributed to the hostile work environment. The plaintiffs claim she screamed at employees using "ethnically pejorative words and language."

The four women, identified in the suit as Hispanic, also claim they were subjected to labor violations, including being denied proper pay, before eventually leaving their jobs. They stated they delayed coming forward due to cultural shame surrounding sexual assault, fear of losing their low-wage employment, and Smokey Robinson's prominent celebrity status.

During a press conference in Los Angeles, three of the accusers were present, wearing masks and dark glasses, while the fourth participated remotely alongside their legal counsel. Attorney John Harris commented on the $50 million amount sought, stating that while no amount of money can truly compensate for the alleged suffering, the sum is "clearly warranted" given the seriousness of the accusations.

Specific allegations detailed in the lawsuit include Jane Doe 1 accusing Robinson of unwanted sexual acts on at least seven occasions, often after being summoned to a bedroom. The final reported incident for this plaintiff allegedly took place on February 17, 2024.

Other plaintiffs made similar accusations. Jane Doe 2 and Jane Doe 3 each alleged at least 20 instances of assault over the years they were employed.

Representatives for Smokey Robinson have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the lawsuit. At this time, the accusations presented in the filing could not be independently verified.

While the plaintiffs' lawyers stated they would welcome a criminal investigation, they confirmed they have not yet been contacted by prosecutors. A spokesperson for the Los Angeles County District Attorney indicated the case is not currently under review as law enforcement has not presented it to their office, while Los Angeles police did not issue a statement on the matter.

Smokey Robinson is widely known for his pivotal role in the Motown sound of the 1960s. As the lead singer of The Miracles and later as a solo artist, he recorded over 30 hit songs, including the iconic "Tears of a Clown."