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Jimmie Allen has been sued by his former manager for multiple counts of alleged sexual abuse and assault.
The woman, who is in her twenties and being identified as "Jane Doe", alleges that whilst employed as Allen's day-to-day manager, she was raped and repeatedly sexually harassed over an 18-month period.
According to a lawsuit filed Thursday (5/12) in Tennessee federal court, Allen is being sued for sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, sex trafficking and emotional distress. The woman's former employer, Wide Open Music, and its founder Ash Bowers, are also being sued for gross negligence and participating in a venture engaged in sex trafficking.
In a story first published by Variety, it is reported that after the woman "had been allegedly coerced and forced to have sexual intercourse with Allen, she would regularly bleed, cry uncontrollably and run to the bathroom to vomit. Despite these signs, she says Allen failed to acknowledge her physical and emotional pain."
The lawsuit claims that Allen “made clear her job was dependent on her staying silent about his conduct". It is alleged that multiple sexual encounters were also videotaped by Allen “to blackmail her to stay silent".
The Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum-selling artist admitted to having a sexual relationship with the woman, however denies any wrongdoing.
"It is deeply troubling and hurtful that someone I counted as one of my closest friends, colleagues and confidants would make allegations that have no truth to them whatsoever", he said in his statement to Variety. He continued on to say, "The simple fact is, her accusations are not only false, but also extremely damaging. I’ve worked incredibly hard to build my career, and I intend to mount a vigorous defense to her claims and take all other legal action necessary to protect my reputation.”
Following the allegations, Allen has been suspended by his label Stoney Creek Records, an imprint of BBR Music Group. He has also been dropped from the upcoming 2023 CMA Fest, set to take place in Nashville from June 8-11. He was booked to perform on the main stage at the Nissan Stadium.
The news comes soon after Allen and wife, Alexis Gale, announced their separation. The couple have two children together and are expecting a third.
