Content Warning: This article discusses allegations of sexual assault.
Jermaine Jackson, known for his role in the Jackson 5 and as Michael Jackson’s brother, is facing a lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault and battery, according to documents obtained by Newsound. The lawsuit, filed by Rita Barrett in the Los Angeles Superior Court on Wednesday, claims that Jackson attacked her in 1988. It also implicates Jermaine L. Jackson Music Productions and Work Records, Jackson’s companies, in the case.
Barrett, who has known Jackson for several years through her work as a musician’s contractor and connections with Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, alleges that Jackson forced himself into her home in the spring of 1988 and sexually assaulted her.
The day following the alleged incident, Barrett reportedly informed Gordy of the assault. The lawsuit suggests that Gordy, rather than taking action, concealed the incident, which contributed to a cover-up that enabled Gordy, Jackson, and their associates to continue benefiting financially from Jackson’s work and public image. The lawsuit is seeking compensation for claims of sexual battery, battery, sexual assault, and negligence.
Newsound has attempted to contact the legal representatives of both Barrett and Jackson, as well as Jackson’s spokesperson for their responses. This lawsuit is part of a broader legal context under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act, which allows for the temporary suspension of the statute of limitations for certain sexual misconduct civil cases.
For those affected by sexual assault, support is available through the following resources:
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), http://rainn.org
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” or “HOLA” to 741-741
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jermaine Jackson lawsuit
Who is being sued in the new sexual assault lawsuit?
Jermaine Jackson, a member of the Jackson 5 and brother of Michael Jackson, is being sued for alleged sexual assault and battery. The lawsuit also names his companies, Jermaine L. Jackson Music Productions and Work Records, as defendants.
What are the allegations against Jermaine Jackson?
The lawsuit alleges that in 1988, Jermaine Jackson sexually assaulted Rita Barrett at her residence. Barrett had known Jackson for several years through her professional connections.
How did Berry Gordy allegedly respond to the assault disclosure?
According to the lawsuit, when Rita Barrett informed Berry Gordy about the assault the day after it happened, Gordy allegedly concealed the incident instead of reporting it, contributing to a cover-up.
What does the lawsuit seek in terms of damages?
The lawsuit filed by Rita Barrett seeks damages for claims of sexual battery, battery, sexual assault, and negligence against Jermaine Jackson and his companies.
Under what legal act was Barrett’s lawsuit filed?
Barrett’s lawsuit was filed under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act, a law that temporarily waives the statute of limitations on certain civil claims involving sexual misconduct.
More about Jermaine Jackson lawsuit
- Jermaine Jackson’s Legal Troubles
- Understanding the Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act
- Resources for Sexual Assault Victims
- The Role of Berry Gordy in the Alleged Cover-Up
- Background of Rita Barrett and Her Connections in the Music Industry
6 comments
This is just awful if it’s true. But why did it take so long for her to come forward, makes you wonder.
everyone’s jumping to conclusions, we should wait for the court to decide, innocent till proven guilty, right?
wow, just read about jermaine jackson getting sued, crazy stuff, feels like these stories are neverending…
I’m shocked but not surprised, the music industry has so many dark secrets. And Berry Gordy involved too??
Honestly, these allegations against celebs are getting out of hand, who knows whats true anymore…
As a journalist, the details in this lawsuit are disturbing. It’s important we keep talking about these issues.