Jermaine Jackson, a member of the iconic Jackson 5 and older brother to the late Michael Jackson, is facing a legal battle as a woman, Rita Barrett, has filed a lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault.

The lawsuit was lodged in the Los Angeles Superior Court on Wednesday. According to Barrett, she was acquainted with Jackson through her husband's friendship with Motown Records founder Berry Gordy. Barrett's claim alleged that in 1988, Jackson unexpectedly arrived at her home, forcibly entered, and subjected her to sexual assault using violence.

The legal filing further contends that due to Berry Gordy's ties with both Jackson and Barrett's family, Gordy could report Jackson's actions and support Barrett during her distress. 

However, Barrett accuses Gordy of concealing the incident, contributing to a cover-up that allowed Jackson, Gordy, and others involved in their business relationships to profit from Jackson's work and reputation for years.

Jackson, aged 65, and Gordy, aged 94, were unavailable for comment regarding the allegations, as per the Los Angeles Times.

The lawsuit extended its reach to include Jermaine L Jackson Productions, Jackson's company, and the label Work Records.

Known for his solo music career, Jermaine Jackson secured six Hot 100 hits in the 1970s and '80s, including chart-toppers like "Daddy's Home" and "Let's Get Serious". Additionally, he contributed to the success of Jackson 5 classics by playing bass and providing backing vocals on songs like "I Want You Back", "ABC", and "I'll Be There".

Barrett's legal action falls under California's Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, allowing civil suits in cases of sexual assault beyond the statute of limitations, provided there is evidence of cover-up or involvement of entities legally accountable for damages. This act permits suits to be filed until the close of 2023.

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