Allegations of Sexual Misconduct against Smokey Robinson and His Wife

Four women have initiated legal proceedings against Smokey Robinson, the iconic figure of Motown, and his spouse, citing claims of sexual misconduct and physical assault.

The lawsuit, submitted to the Los Angeles Superior Court, seeks damages amounting to $50 million. The defendants named are Smokey Robinson, legally known as William Robinson Jr., and his wife, Frances Robinson.

The charges specified within the suit include sexual violation, hostile confinement, gender-related violence, and a number of infractions within their employment environment.

The plaintiffs, identified as Jane Does to maintain anonymity, were working as housekeepers for the Robinsons at their home in Chatsworth.

John Harris, representing the women legally, stated in a press briefing, "We are convinced that Mr. Robinson has a pattern of disturbing behavior that must be halted." He refrained from divulging explicit details of the alleged incidents, citing their grievous nature.

The allegations claim repeated instances of sexual misconduct by Robinson, with some events allegedly occurring as far back as 2007. The complaint declares that all victims felt compelled to leave their jobs due to these circumstances.

"Our clients share a common aspect; they are all Hispanic women," Harris elaborated.

The lawsuit alleges that Robinson’s wife failed to act to prevent the incidents, despite purportedly being aware of her husband's prior settlements in similar cases.

It is claimed that during these events, the women were restrained from escaping through physical means and intimidation. One plaintiff indicated that Robinson would summon her to isolated areas of his mansion, away from surveillance.

Harris mentioned, "We possess certain pieces of evidence corroborating the misconduct."

Additional allegations encompass non-compliance with employment laws. One plaintiff mentioned being underpaid, receiving just $10 an hour, with grievances pertaining to neglected rest breaks and uncompensated extra hours.

The women did not initially report these incidents to law enforcement, fearing repercussions such as job loss, familial conflicts, and potential adverse effects on their immigration status.

Harris conveyed the emotional turmoil faced by the victims, stating, "The shame and discomfort in disclosing such occurrences to their families kept these women silent about their grim encounters."

The filed documents suggest that Frances Robinson contributed to a hostile working environment through disparaging remarks and causing emotional distress.

CBS News Los Angeles has reached out to the Robinsons seeking their response to these allegations.