Smokey Robinson is under criminal investigation after being accused of rape and sexual assault. The legendary vocalist, known for hits like “Tears of a Clown” and “Being With You,” now faces one of the most serious challenges of his long career.
“The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Special Victims Bureau is actively investigating criminal allegations involving William Robinson aka ‘Smokey Robinson.’ The investigation is in the early stages, and we have no further comment,” the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that its special victims bureau is now “actively investigating criminal allegations” against the 85-year-old music star, who is facing accusations of rape and sexual assault from four former housekeepers. This investigation marks a significant escalation beyond the civil lawsuit already filed.
In a statement shared with Fox News, a representative for the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department said: “The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Special Victims Bureau is actively investigating criminal allegations involving William Robinson aka ‘Smokey Robinson.’ The investigation is in the early stages, and we have no further comment.” The Special Victims Bureau specifically handles sensitive cases involving sexual assault allegations.
Earlier this month, the housekeepers filed a $50 million lawsuit against the Motown icon. The women claim that the alleged assaults took place between 2007 and 2024. The lengthy timespan of the allegations has drawn particular attention from legal observers following the case.
Christopher Frost, Robinson’s lawyer, has welcomed the police investigation and is confident that his client will clear his name. The defense team appears ready to challenge the accusations vigorously throughout both the criminal investigation and civil proceedings.
He said in a statement to Fox News: “We are aware that a police report has now been filed by the Plaintiffs in the civil lawsuit. It is clear to us what is happening here. Plaintiffs filed a police report only after they filed a $50 million lawsuit. This timing has been questioned by Robinson’s legal team, who suggest it indicates an ulterior motive.
“This means only that the police are now required to investigate. We welcome that investigation, which involves Plaintiffs who continue to hide their identities, because exposure to the truth is a powerful thing.” The statement reflects the defense’s strategy of questioning both the timing and the anonymity of the accusers.
Frost is convinced that Robinson will prove he “did nothing wrong”. The attorney’s forceful defense suggests confidence in their position amid serious allegations.
He said: “We feel confident that a determination will be made that Mr. Robinson did nothing wrong, and that this is a desperate attempt to prejudice public opinion and make even more of a media circus than the Plaintiffs were previously able to create. The strong language indicates the defense will be aggressive in challenging the plaintiffs’ claims.
“The record will ultimately demonstrate that this is nothing more than a manufactured lawsuit intended to tarnish the good names of Smokey and Frances Robinson, for no other reason than unadulterated avarice.” The mention of Frances Robinson, Smokey’s wife, suggests the allegations have affected not just the singer but his family as well.
Meanwhile, John Harris and Herbert Hayden, the lawyers for the women, have welcomed the decision to launch a criminal investigation. The plaintiffs’ legal team appears ready to cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities.
They said in a statement: “Our clients intend to fully co-operate with LASD’s ongoing investigation in the pursuit of seeking justice for themselves and others that may have been similarly assaulted by him.” The reference to “others” suggests the attorneys may believe there could be additional accusers beyond the four currently involved in the case.
The case has sent shockwaves through the music industry, with many fans expressing disbelief at the allegations against the beloved Motown figure. Robinson‘s career spans over six decades, during which he has been regarded as one of the most influential figures in American popular music.
Legal experts note that criminal investigations in such high-profile cases often proceed cautiously, with investigators taking time to gather evidence and interview all relevant parties. The dual track of both civil and criminal proceedings adds complexity to an already sensitive case.
The allegations come at a time when Robinson, at 85, had been enjoying a career renaissance with recent performances and recognition for his lifetime of musical contributions. His representatives have emphasized that Robinson intends to continue performing while defending himself against these accusations.
