Kaylah Walton
Smokey Robinson, the iconic Motown figure, is embroiled in a contentious legal dispute involving a $500 million countersuit. This situation arose after four former female staff members initiated a lawsuit against him earlier this month, seeking $50 million and alleging sexual battery, assault, and false imprisonment. In retaliation, Robinson and his spouse Frances have countered with claims of slander, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and financial elder abuse.
The Robinsons’ legal representatives have characterized the accusations as “fabricated for the purpose of extortion” in a lawsuit reviewed by Variety. They highlighted the strong rapport between the couple and the plaintiffs, noting that the employees were treated like “extended family.” The document also underscores how the Robinsons vacationed with the women, offered financial assistance, and celebrated holidays together. “The Robinsons did not mistreat, harm or exploit the plaintiffs; they showed them the utmost kindness and generosity,” the filing states.
In addition, the countersuit claims that the women made pre-litigation demands exceeding $100 million, which were ignored. Following the lack of response, the Robinsons assert that the plaintiffs “[created] a media spectacle and [made] a public scene.” Moreover, John W. Harris, the attorney for the women, has publicly accused Robinson of being a “serial and sick rapist” and a “serial assaulter,” charges that Robinson’s legal team vehemently denies.
The Robinsons’ lawsuit raises important questions regarding the validity of the allegations. According to their legal team, none of the women ever reported a toxic workplace environment during their tenure. They further argue that one plaintiff left her position only to return later, suggesting that the allegations are baseless. The counter-suit also accuses one of the plaintiffs of misappropriating financial records and gold coins, while another allegedly deleted text conversations, images, and personal information from Frances Robinson’s mobile device.
“Fabricated Allegations” and a pursuit of justice in court
In a further development of this intricate case, the Robinsons have submitted a motion to dismiss the lawsuit due to the plaintiffs proceeding under pseudonyms. The motion contends that this contravenes California law unless there is a compelling privacy concern, which they argue is not applicable in this instance.
Simultaneously, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has initiated a criminal probe into the accusations. “The investigation is in the preliminary phase,” stated a representative from their Special Victims Bureau, indicating that they are actively examining the claims against William “Smokey” Robinson.
