Smokey Robinson Accuser Denies Alleged Storage Unit Burglary

A former employee suing Smokey Robinson has denied breaking into his storage unit. The accusation was made in a Los Angeles court on Thursday. The woman, known as Jane Doe 4, is one of several accusers in a separate sexual assault lawsuit against the Motown legend.

Her lawyer called the burglary claim “patently false.” This new allegation adds another layer to the ongoing legal battle. It represents a significant escalation in the contentious dispute.

Conflicting Claims Over Blurry Surveillance Footage

According to court proceedings, Robinson and his wife, Frances, allege Jane Doe 4 accessed their private storage unit on November 22. They claim surveillance video shows her stealing boxes. The alleged stolen property was valued at $33,000, as stated in a police report obtained by Rolling Stone.

The Robinsons’ lawyer stated the culprit needed a specific code and key. He asserted Jane Doe 4 was the only person with that access. Frances Robinson identified her in the footage.

The accuser’s legal team fiercely disputes this. They state their client was at work during the alleged incident. They also suggested the video could be an “A.I. fabrication” if it clearly depicts her.

Broader Legal Battle and Ongoing Investigations

This burglary accusation is a counterpoint to a major lawsuit. Jane Doe 4 is among four former domestic workers who sued Robinson for $50 million last May. They allege sexual harassment, rape, and a hostile work environment spanning years.

The Robinsons have denied all assault allegations. They have countersued the women for defamation and elder abuse. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed it is investigating the sexual assault claims.

The judge declined to issue a restraining order related to the storage unit. He noted a police report was filed and an investigation is pending. This leaves both civil lawsuits and a new criminal inquiry unfolding simultaneously.

The new burglary accusation intensifies an already serious legal drama for Smokey Robinson. The conflicting stories will likely be resolved by the ongoing police investigation. The outcome could impact the separate, high-stakes sexual assault lawsuit.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: What is Smokey Robinson accused of in the original lawsuit?

He is accused of sexual assault by four former employees. The allegations include harassment, rape, and creating a hostile work environment. The lawsuits seek $50 million in damages.

Q2: What was allegedly stolen from the storage unit?

The police report states property valued at $33,000 was taken. Specific items mentioned include several boxes and two five-foot Santa statues. The unit was located in Chatsworth, California.

Q3: How does Jane Doe 4’s lawyer explain the surveillance video?

Her lawyer claims the accusation is false. He suggested that if the video clearly shows his client, it might be digitally fabricated. He also stated she has an alibi for the time of the alleged burglary.

Q4: What has Smokey Robinson’s response been to the assault claims?

Robinson and his wife have denied all allegations of sexual misconduct. They have filed a countersuit against the accusers for defamation. They characterize the claims as a desperate attempt for money and attention.

Q5: Are the police involved in these cases?

Yes. The LAPD is investigating the reported storage unit burglary. Separately, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Special Victims Bureau is investigating the sexual assault allegations. Both are active inquiries.