Full Breakdown
Allegations of Sexual Abuse Against Gospel Singer Donnie McClurkin
1/6/2026, 8:20:33 AM
Allegations and Lawsuit Details
Giuseppe Corletto, a former personal assistant to Grammy-winning gospel singer and pastor Donnie McClurkin, has filed a civil lawsuit alleging that McClurkin sexually abused and raped him over a period of nearly a decade, from 2007 to 2015. Corletto, who joined McClurkin's Perfecting Faith Church in Freeport, New York, in 2003 at the age of 21, sought guidance from McClurkin, who had publicly discussed overcoming his sexuality through faith. The lawsuit claims that McClurkin, then 44, took Corletto under his wing, leading to a series of alleged assaults during business trips to locations including California, Atlantic City, and Florida.
The complaint details incidents where McClurkin allegedly coerced Corletto into sexual acts, asserting that Corletto's "deliverance" and "purpose" were tied to McClurkin. Despite quitting his position in 2008, Corletto claims the abuse continued, culminating in further incidents in 2012 and 2013. The lawsuit also references an email from McClurkin in 2013, in which he described himself as a "dirty old man" and acknowledged inappropriate behavior towards Corletto.
Impact on Corletto
Corletto's lawsuit outlines the emotional and physical toll of the alleged abuse, claiming he has suffered from emotional distress, physical pain, and a loss of enjoyment in life. He is seeking unspecified monetary damages from McClurkin.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the allegations, McClurkin's attorney, Greg Lisi, stated that Corletto's claims are "categorically false" and contradict the "real facts." Lisi emphasized that McClurkin did not engage in any form of sexual abuse or coercion and characterized the lawsuit as a misrepresentation of their interactions over the years.
Criticism & Opposition
The allegations against McClurkin have sparked significant public discourse, particularly within the gospel music community. Critics of McClurkin have expressed concern over the implications of the allegations, given his influential role as a pastor and public figure. The case raises questions about power dynamics within religious institutions and the potential for abuse of authority.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am the actual epitome of a desperate dirty ‘old man’…groping a young man who is just looking for a friendship and close plutonic [sic] relationship with someone he looks to for help, guidance, and spirituality,” — Donnie McClurkin, in an email to Giuseppe Corletto.
- “At no time did Pastor McClurkin engage in any form of sexual abuse, assault or sexual coercion of Mr. Corletto,” — Greg Lisi, Attorney for Donnie McClurkin.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Corletto's lawsuit presents a detailed account of the alleged abuse, McClurkin's legal team has firmly denied all allegations. The contrasting narratives highlight a significant divide in perspectives regarding the events described in the lawsuit, leaving the matter to be resolved through legal proceedings.
This case continues to unfold, drawing attention to the broader issues of accountability and transparency within religious organizations.
