Smokey Robinson is in the legal crosshairs. In addition to the discrimination lawsuits, four former housekeepers have alleged sexual battery, assault and creating a hostile work environment. The plaintiffs this week filed a proposed class action lawsuit, alleging that the civil rights violations took place during the past three years. They are seeking damages in excess of $50 million.
The allegations detail a pattern of “despicable and reprehensible misconduct,” according to John Harris, the attorney representing the women. The plaintiffs, three Hispanic women employed by Robinson and his wife, Frances Robinson as housekeepers, allege a pattern of sexual assault and harassment. These allegations create a heartbreaking image of what they had to endure while working.
Jane Doe 1 says that Robinson first sexually assaulted her while she led him in a training in March 2023. These attacks apparently didn’t stop until the newly appointed executive director was coerced to resign in February 2024. Jane Doe 2 alleges that Robinson’s unwanted sexual advances started in 2007 when she was working at his Las Vegas home. She claims these advances persisted up until her resignation in 2020. She worked as an informal housekeeper at Robinson’s Chatsworth home from May 2014 until February 2020.
The lawsuit makes accusations against Frances Robinson herself, naming her as a defendant. Whether intentional or not, the plaintiffs argue that she created an antagonistic work environment. They further charge that she had deployed ethnically derogatory language and covered up for her husband’s misconduct. Specifically, Jane Doe 2 describes two occasions on which Frances Robinson allegedly yelled at her, berating Jane Doe 2 with curse words and other foul language.
Jane Doe 3 also worked for Smokey Robinson from February 2012 to April 2024. She has now boldly stepped forward to put him on blast and accuse him of sexual harassment, sexual assault and sexual harassment. Jane Doe 4 was a victim—she had worked as a housekeeper and personal assistant to Frances Robinson. She lived in that capacity at their Chatsworth home from October 2006 to April 2024.
Harris took time to highlight the bravery of his clients in stepping forward to shed light on their experiences.
“These courageous four women have collectively decided to come forward and share their experiences of being sexually assaulted by Mr. Smokey Robinson and stand up for their rights as well as the rights of other women, particularly those that may be victimized by him in the future,” – John Harris
At the time of this writing, Smokey Robinson has yet to answer the complaint or any of the charges he faces. The lawsuit highlights the systemic problems of dangerous workplace culture and lack of accountability.
“Our four clients have a common thread. They’re Hispanic women who are employed as housekeepers by the Robinsons, earning below minimum wage,” – John Harris
As of now, Smokey Robinson has not responded to the complaint or any of the allegations made against him. The legal action brings to light serious issues regarding workplace conduct and accountability.
