Smokey Robinson, 85, accused of assault and sexual battery in lawsuit

Four women have accused the Motown legend of repeated sexual assault, harassment, and other serious misconduct during their employment (Picture: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)

Four women who formerly worked as housekeepers for Smokey Robinson and his wife, Frances Robinson, have filed a civil lawsuit against him in Los Angeles Superior Court.

The lawsuit accuses the Motown legend of repeated sexual assault, harassment, and other serious misconduct during their employment.

The suit, filed Tuesday, identifies the plaintiffs anonymously as Jane Doe 1 through 4.

The women allege that Robinson, 85, subjected them to ‘repeated sexual assaults and sexual harassment’ at his Chatsworth residence and other locations, including a home in Las Vegas.

The complaint also names Frances Robinson as a defendant, citing her role in creating a hostile work environment and failing to intervene despite allegedly being aware of her husband’s past misconduct.

The women are seeking a jury trial and general damages of no less than $50million USD (approx. £40m).

The suits accuse Robinson of sexual assault, false imprisonment, and gender-based violence (Picture: Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

According to the lawsuit, Jane Doe 4 worked not only as a housekeeper but also served as Frances Robinson’s personal assistant, cook, and hairdresser from October 2006 until April 2024, when she resigned.

Her complaint includes allegations of sexual assault beginning in 2007 during a trip to Las Vegas with Smokey Robinson.

Jane Doe 1 worked for the couple from March 2023 to February 2024. Jane Doe 2 was employed from May 2014 to February 2020. Jane Doe 3 worked in the Robinsons’ household from February 2012 until April 2024.

All four women describe similar patterns of misconduct and allege that they ultimately resigned due to the abuse and toxic conditions.

In addition to sexual assault, the plaintiffs accuse Robinson of false imprisonment and gender-based violence.

The lawsuit further alleges that Frances Robinson verbally abused the women and used ‘ethnically pejorative words and language’ while yelling at her husband, contributing to a hostile and unsafe work environment.

The plaintiffs’ legal team is expected to address the media at a news conference Tuesday afternoon in Los Angeles, Variety reports.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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