Rita Barrett Sues Jermaine Jackson for Alleged Sexual Assault, Claiming Violent Experience
In a surprising turn of events, Jermaine Jackson, the accomplished vocalist, lyricist, and ex-member of the legendary Jackson 5, is now facing legal action from Rita Barrett. This lawsuit, filed at the Los Angeles Superior Court, claims that Jackson committed sexual assault against Barrett in 1988, representing a highly troubling period in her life.
According to reports, Barrett has accused Jackson of forcefully entering her home in the spring of 1988 and subjecting her to a traumatic and fearful experience. The lawsuit includes claims of sexual battery, battery, sexual assault, and negligence, and extends to Jermaine L. Jackson Music Productions, Inc. and Work Records, Inc.
Barrett, who shares friendly and business relations with Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, has brought attention to her allegations, even involving Gordy in the lawsuit. The suit contends that Barrett reported the assault to Gordy, who allegedly supported Jackson and purportedly assisted in concealing the alleged abuse, rather than aiding Barrett.
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This lawsuit came to light following Jackson’s former association with Motown Records, during which time the Jackson 5 had already parted ways. Notably, Jackson’s marriage to Hazel Gordy ended in divorce in the same year as the alleged incident, due to his infidelity.
As this story unfolds, it casts a sobering light on a figure once celebrated in the music industry, prompting a closer examination of the alleged events from 1988 and the impact they continue to have.