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$50M Lawsuit Hits Smokey Robinson and Wife Frances Over Sexual Assault and Labor Violations

Motown legend Smokey Robinson and his wife Frances Robinson are facing a $50 million lawsuit filed by four former employees alleging sexual assault, hostile work conditions, and major labor law violations. The plaintiffs claim years of abuse and wage theft in a case now unfolding in Los Angeles Superior Court.

KARIZMA SPEAKS BLOGSMOKEY ROBINSONCELEBRITY SCANDALS

5/8/20252 min read

Overview:

Legendary Motown singer Smokey Robinson and his wife Frances Robinson are being sued for $50 million by four former employees who accuse the couple of sexual battery, workplace abuse, and labor law violations. The civil suit was filed in Los Angeles on May 6 and outlines years of alleged misconduct, including sexual assault, unpaid wages, and a hostile work environment.

Allegations of Sexual Misconduct:

Each plaintiff details a disturbing pattern of sexual assault and harassment by Smokey Robinson during their employment. According to the complaint:

  • Jane Doe 1: Endured at least 7 sexual assaults between March 2023 and February 2024.

  • Jane Doe 2: Reports 23 incidents beginning in late 2016.

  • Jane Doe 3: Alleges she was raped at least 20 times from February 2012 to April 2024.

  • Jane Doe 4: First assaulted in 2007, with continued harassment until April 2024.

Hostile Work Environment & Retaliation:

The plaintiffs allege a toxic workplace perpetuated by both Smokey and Frances Robinson:

  • Frances Robinson allegedly ignored or enabled her husband’s conduct despite being aware of it.

  • Plaintiffs describe verbal abuse, demeaning treatment, and aggressive behavior by Frances.

  • The conditions led to emotional trauma and eventual resignation.

Labor Law Violations:

The suit accuses the Robinsons of systematic labor abuse:

  • Plaintiffs worked 6 days a week, up to 10 hours a day, with no proper compensation.

  • Wages ranged from $10/hour to $20/hour, with no overtime, holiday pay, or wage statements.

  • Plaintiffs were denied mandated rest and meal breaks, in violation of California labor law.

Specific Labor Code Violations Include:

  • Overtime Pay (Labor Code §§ 510, 1194, 1198)

  • Inaccurate or Missing Wage Statements (Labor Code § 226)

  • Denied Rest Breaks (Labor Code § 226.7)

  • Denied Meal Periods (Labor Code §§ 226.7, 512)

Damages and Legal Claims:

The lawsuit seeks over $50 million in general damages, in addition to:

  • Special and punitive damages for emotional distress and lost wages

  • Injunctive relief, attorney’s fees, and statutory penalties

  • Compensation for all unpaid overtime and missed rest/meal periods

  • Allegations include sexual battery, assault, negligence, false imprisonment, and multiple labor violations

Jury Trial Requested:

The plaintiffs have formally requested a jury trial to ensure a full and fair hearing of all allegations.