Rita Butler Barrett Files Lawsuit Against Michael Jackson’s Brother Over Disturbing Claims
Rita Butler Barrett has initiated legal action in Los Angeles, alleging that Jermaine Jackson, the sibling of the deceased Michael Jackson, committed sexual assault in 1988. As outlined in records acquired by Fox News Digital, Barrett asserted that she has endured different instances of sexual abuse perpetrated by Jermaine Jackson.
Allegations include assault, battery, harassment, and rape. In the lawsuit, Barrett claimed to have reported the assault to Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, who she alleges concealed the acts to protect Jackson’s reputation.
Barrett’s lawsuit mentioned her personal and familial connections, including Berry Gordy of Motown, and her husband’s professional relationship with Gordy and Jackson. The documents detailed the alleged assault, stating that Jackson forced himself into Barrett’s home in Spring 1988 and sexually assaulted her with force and violence. The lawsuit also accused Berry Gordy of withholding and concealing the acts, perpetuating the cover-up to maintain Jackson’s reputation and business partnerships.
READ ALSO: Tragic Love Story: Pregnant Texas Teen And Boyfriend Found Dead With Gunshot Wounds
The lawsuit also mentioned that one day after the assault, Barrett reported the incident to Mr. Gordy. According to the suit, Gordy was uniquely positioned to report Jackson’s acts and aid Barrett during her time of trauma but chose to conceal the assault. The lawsuit emphasized the impact of the assault and cover-up on Barrett, claiming that Jackson’s reputation remained intact while she suffered in silence for decades. Jermaine L. Jackson Music Productions, Inc. and his Work Records, Inc. were also named in the lawsuit.
The case was filed under California’s Sexual Abuse and Accountability Act, allowing survivors to file lawsuits against entities after the statute of limitations has expired. The article states that representatives for Jackson, Gordy, and Barrett did not immediately respond to requests for comment.