Yet another celeb’ is being accused of sexual assault. Jermaine Jackson, the renowned musician and member of the iconic Jackson fam,’ is currently facing a legal battle that dates back 35 years, to 1988.

Accuser’s Allegations Against Jermaine Jackson

Rita Butler Barrett, a woman who claims to have been sexually assaulted by Jermaine Jackson, has just filed a lawsuit against him. The alleged incident supposedly occurred at Barrett’s Los Angeles home, where she claims Jermaine forced his way in and assaulted her:

Via Page Six – Barrett claims she came to know Jackson, now 69, when she worked as a musician’s contractor. Additionally, she claims the two had mutual “close personal/familial connections,” including Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, who was purportedly “simultaneously in a personal and business relationship” with Barrett’s husband.

According to Barrett, Jackson allegedly “forced himself” into her LA home after arriving unannounced in or around the spring of 1988.

“With force and violence,” he allegedly proceeded to sexually assault her, according to her filing. During the alleged attack, Barrett claims she “prayed to God for help” as she “feared for her life.”

What’s Berry Gordy Got To Do With This, According To Accuser?

Barrett’s lawsuit not only accuses Jermaine of sexual assault, but also claims that Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records, played a role in covering up the incident. According to Barrett, she reported the assault to Gordy, who allegedly took steps to conceal the truth in order to protect Jackson’s career and reputation.

Difficulties Of Filing Decades-Old Assault Lawsuits

It’s worth noting that sexual assault cases often face challenges, particularly when they are brought forward years after the incident took place. Memories fade, evidence becomes harder to gather, and potential witnesses may be difficult to locate.

Only Time Will Tell

Both Jermaine Jackson and Berry Gordy have yet to publicly comment on the matter. As the legal process unfolds, it remains to be seen how this case will progress. Only time will tell if this ends in the same manner as Diddy’s and Cassie’s lightening-speed sexual assault settlement did…or if Jermaine Jackson and Berry Gordy plan on fighting Rita Barrett’s allegations in court. Either way…wherever the truth in this matter lies, may that truth prevail.