Smokey Robinson’s Defamation Case Against Former Employees Dismissed

Smokey Robinson’s Countersuit Dismissed Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

A Los Angeles judge has dismissed the majority of a $500 million countersuit filed by legendary Motown singer Smokey Robinson and his wife, Frances, against former employees. This development follows a lawsuit initiated by six former staff members, who accused the couple of sexual assault and battery last May.

The former employees claimed that the Robinsons harassed them repeatedly at their Chatsworth residence and violated state labor laws. In response to these allegations, the Robinsons denied any wrongdoing and filed a countersuit, alleging defamation among other claims.

However, the judge ruled that the Robinsons failed to demonstrate a reasonable likelihood of success in their defamation case.

John Harris, attorney for the former employees, commented on the implications of the ruling: "If you think that you run the possibility of being sued for millions of dollars from the defendant in a cross complaint, that will certainly have a chilling effect on you exercising your right from the first amendment. My clients can rest a little better at night because they were very worried about this humungous claim that was hanging over their heads."

In their legal battle, the Robinsons also accused their former employees of theft and tampering with evidence. While the employees refuted these allegations, the claims will proceed in court.

Christopher Frost, the Robinsons’ attorney, expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling, calling it "incorrect." He stated, "There is plenty of evidence of actual malice on the part of the attorneys. More fundamentally, our focus remains on showing that the Jane Does’ claims are untrue and fabricated. Even the Court, in its ruling, recognized the numerous inconsistencies in their testimony."

Frost added that despite some claims being dismissed, the couple remains committed to addressing the inconsistencies in the former employees’ accounts. A trial concerning the sexual assault allegations is tentatively scheduled for next year, with the former employees seeking a minimum of $50 million in general damages and unspecified punitive damages.

Smokey Robinson, who gained fame in Detroit, founded The Miracles in high school and became a significant figure in Motown’s success. He authored numerous hits, such as "Shop Around" and "Tears of a Clown," and served as vice president of Motown Records. His solo achievements include songs like "Just to See Her" and "Cruisin’." Most recently, Robinson released a new album titled "What the World Needs Now" on April 25.