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Gospel singer Donnie McClurkin denies sexual assault allegations, calls claims “contrived and untrue” as he faces lawsuit from former assistant.
Grammy Award-winning gospel artist and pastor Donnie McClurkin has firmly denied allegations of sexual assault and rape filed against him by Giuseppe Corletto, a former church member and personal assistant. In a statement posted to social media, McClurkin called the accusations “contrived and untrue” while expressing confidence that he will be vindicated through legal proceedings.
“I want to state clearly and unequivocally that these allegations are contrived and untrue,” said McClurkin, whose hit song “We Fall Down” has contributed to album sales exceeding 10 million worldwide. “I understand the weight of such false claims, especially in our community rooted in faith, trust, and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Sexual violence, in any form, is a real and painful reality for many and not to be used frivolously.”
The lawsuit, filed last Friday in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, contains serious allegations against the 66-year-old minister. Corletto, now 43, claims McClurkin sexually assaulted and raped him repeatedly beginning when Corletto was approximately 21 years old. The accuser states he initially sought out McClurkin’s ministry for guidance regarding his sexuality after reading the pastor’s 2001 book, “Eternal Victim, Eternal Victor,” in which McClurkin describes his own claimed deliverance from homosexuality.
According to court documents, Corletto alleges he was “groomed” shortly after joining Perfecting Faith Church in Freeport, New York, in August 2003. The lawsuit claims inappropriate behavior began within three weeks of Corletto’s attendance, initially from a church minister who made unwanted advances. When Corletto considered leaving the church, the filing states McClurkin personally intervened, assuring him the minister was being “dealt with” and describing the harassment as a “test from God.”
Corletto claims he was subsequently hired as McClurkin’s personal assistant, after which their mentor-mentee relationship allegedly evolved into abuse. The lawsuit contains graphic descriptions of multiple alleged non-consensual sexual encounters spanning a decade, including an incident at a Niagara Falls hotel in June 2013.
Perhaps most damaging to McClurkin’s defense, the lawsuit includes what is purported to be an email from the pastor apologizing for inappropriate behavior. In the alleged correspondence, McClurkin describes himself as “the actual epitome of a desperate dirty ‘old man'” and acknowledges “groping a young man” and “forcing himself” on Corletto.
The gospel artist has built his ministry largely on his testimony of being delivered from what he describes as a life of abuse and homosexuality. This lawsuit potentially threatens both his personal reputation and the theological foundation of his ministry work.
When questioned about the timing of the allegations, Corletto explained on social media that he only recently discovered “specific, documented communications from 2013” that clarified “the full scope of the situation” and made legal action possible.
“The ‘WHY NOW’ is simple: the truth has its own timing,” Corletto wrote. “I am standing firm in my truth and looking forward to the legal process bringing this matter to a just conclusion.”
McClurkin, meanwhile, maintains his innocence and says he is cooperating with legal processes despite not yet being formally served with the complaint. He has asked his more than 2 million Facebook followers for prayers during this challenging period.
“I have always sought to conduct myself with integrity, transparency, godly care, and responsibility in the fulfillment of my Christian life and duties,” McClurkin stated. “I will vigorously defend to the fullest against this defamatory and baseless lawsuit. I am confident that when the truth is fully known, I will be vindicated.”
The case highlights the growing number of sexual misconduct allegations within religious communities and the complex dynamics that can exist between spiritual leaders and their followers. As the legal process unfolds, both parties have requested privacy and understanding from the public.
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12 Comments
This is a very serious allegation against Mr. McClurkin. It’s important to let due process take its course and avoid rushing to judgment without all the facts. I hope the legal proceedings can shed light on what truly happened.
I agree, the allegations are deeply concerning but we should withhold conclusions until the investigation is complete. Presumption of innocence is a fundamental legal principle.
This is a complex situation with serious implications. I’m glad to see Mr. McClurkin asserting his innocence, but the claims against him are very concerning. I hope the truth emerges through the legal proceedings.
Agreed, these types of cases often involve a lot of nuance. Rushing to judgment rarely leads to a just outcome. I’m glad the legal process will have a chance to thoroughly examine the evidence.
Rape allegations are always troubling, regardless of the accused’s status. I hope the legal process can determine the facts and provide justice, if warranted. False claims can also be very harmful, so a fair and thorough investigation is crucial.
Well said. Maintaining objectivity is key when high-profile individuals are involved. The legal system must be allowed to run its course.
This is a disturbing situation all around. I appreciate Mr. McClurkin asserting his innocence, but the claims against him are very serious. I hope the investigation can uncover the truth and provide justice, if warranted.
Well said. These types of high-profile cases often become polarized, but it’s important to withhold judgment until all the facts are known. A fair and thorough process is essential.
Gospel singers and clergy are often held to high moral standards, so these types of scandals can be very damaging. However, we should be cautious about jumping to conclusions before all evidence is presented.
Absolutely, the public often rushes to condemn high-profile figures accused of misconduct. Let’s hope the truth comes out through proper legal channels.
Gospel artists and clergy hold a position of trust, so allegations like these are deeply troubling. However, we must allow the legal system to do its work and determine the facts. I hope justice is served, whatever the outcome.
Absolutely. In sensitive cases like this, it’s critical to maintain a fair and impartial process. Preserving the integrity of the legal system should be the top priority.