Criminal Probe Starts Into Smokey Robinson Allegations

Smokey Robinson

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced on Thursday that it has launched a criminal investigation into allegations of rape and sexual assault against Motown legend Smokey Robinson.

In a statement, the department’s Special Victims Bureau confirmed it is “actively investigating criminal allegations” against Robinson but noted the investigation is in its early stages, withholding further details.

The probe follows a lawsuit filed last week in Los Angeles Superior Court by four former housekeepers, who allege Robinson repeatedly sexually assaulted and raped them during their employment between 2007 and 2024. The lawsuit seeks at least $50 million in damages.

Robinson’s attorney, Chris Frost, did not immediately comment on the criminal investigation but had previously dismissed the allegations as “vile” and “false,” describing the lawsuit as an attempt to extort money from the 85-year-old music icon. Frost also claimed the accusations “defy credulity” and contain inconsistencies.

The accusers’ attorneys, John Harris and Herbert Hayden, welcomed the Sheriff’s Department’s involvement, stating, “Our clients are committed to cooperating fully with LASD’s investigation to seek justice for themselves and others potentially harmed by him.” Harris labeled Robinson a “serial and sick rapist” who must be held accountable.

The four women, whose identities remain confidential, allege Robinson assaulted them when alone with them at his Los Angeles home. One accuser, employed from 2012 to 2024, claims at least 20 assaults, while another, working from 2014 to 2020, reports at least 23 incidents. All say they quit due to the assaults and delayed reporting out of fear of retaliation, public shame, and immigration concerns.