Grammy-winning gospel singer and pastor Donnie McClurkin is facing a lawsuit alleging sexual misconduct. The complaint, filed by Giuseppe Corletto in New York County Supreme Court, claims that their interactions began in 2003, when Corletto sought spiritual guidance at McClurkin’s church while struggling to reconcile his sexuality with his faith.
At the time, Corletto was around 21 years old and regarded McClurkin as a trusted mentor. The complaint alleges that McClurkin positioned himself as a spiritual authority, creating a power imbalance that later played a central role in the alleged abuse.
After Corletto began working as McClurkin’s personal assistant, the lawsuit claims their relationship became both professional and personal, requiring frequent travel. Corletto alleges that during so-called “spiritual” or “deliverance” sessions, McClurkin groped him without consent. These incidents reportedly occurred at the church, during private meetings, and on work-related trips.
The complaint states that the abuse continued for years, including multiple instances of non-consensual sexual contact, such as groping, forced kissing, and sexual assault during trips. One specific incident in 2007 in California reportedly involved sexual assault in a hotel room. Other trips, including to locations like Niagara Falls, are also cited as occasions when McClurkin allegedly assaulted him.
The lawsuit references an email McClurkin allegedly sent in 2013 following a particular incident. In the email, he reportedly wrote:
• “I am a desperate, dirty ‘old man.’”
• “I have done wrong and I am deeply sorry for my actions.”
• “Please forgive me for the pain I have caused; I failed spiritually and morally.”
Corletto claims this email demonstrates McClurkin’s awareness of wrongdoing and reinforces the alleged pattern of abuse and manipulation.
Throughout the period described, the lawsuit asserts that McClurkin used spiritual and psychological influence to maintain control over Corletto. He allegedly discouraged Corletto from leaving his assistant role, telling him that his “deliverance and purpose” depended on staying in McClurkin’s mentorship.
Corletto says the alleged abuse caused lasting emotional and psychological harm, including depression, anxiety, and a diminished quality of life. He is seeking compensatory damages, legal fees, and other relief through the civil lawsuit.
McClurkin has denied all allegations, calling them “categorically false” and asserting that the claims mischaracterize events that occurred many years ago. He has stated that he intends to vigorously defend himself.
The civil case remains ongoing.
