Donnie McClurkin, the Grammy-winning gospel singer and megachurch pastor, is facing serious legal trouble after a new lawsuit accused him of sexually abusing a former assistant over several years.
The civil complaint, filed Friday, January 2, in New York County Supreme Court, alleges that McClurkin exploited his role as a spiritual leader and mentor while the plaintiff struggled with his sexuality and faith.
The lawsuit was filed by Giuseppe Corletto, who claims the alleged abuse began after he sought guidance from McClurkin in 2003 at the pastor’s Long Island church. Corletto alleges the relationship evolved into employment — and later into repeated, non-consensual sexual encounters disguised as spiritual counseling.
McClurkin has strongly denied all allegations.
Donnie McClurkin Lawsuit Details and Allegations
According to the filing, Corletto says he approached McClurkin for religious guidance after experiencing internal conflict over his sexuality. He alleges that McClurkin assured him he could help “deliver” him from homosexuality, eventually forming a mentor-mentee relationship that led to Corletto working as McClurkin’s personal assistant.
The lawsuit claims that during this time, McClurkin allegedly conducted so-called “pray the gay away” sessions, during which Corletto says he was groped and sexually assaulted without consent. Corletto alleges the abuse continued for approximately six years and occurred in multiple locations, including inside the church and before McClurkin delivered sermons.
Corletto further claims that he reported the alleged misconduct to church staff members but that no action was taken.
McClurkin’s Attorney Calls Claims ‘Categorically False’
McClurkin’s attorney, Greg Lisi, issued a statement denying the accusations in full.
“At no time did Pastor McClurkin engage in any form of sexual abuse, assault, or sexual coercion of Mr. Corletto,” Lisi said. “The claims set forth in the lawsuit grossly mischaracterize their interactions, which occurred over a decade — and some accusations over two decades — ago.”
Lisi added that McClurkin denies each and every allegation and intends to vigorously defend himself through the legal process. Because the matter is now active litigation, McClurkin will not comment further at this time.
Alleged Abuse Continued After Church Departure
The lawsuit claims Corletto resigned from the church in 2008 but alleges McClurkin pressured him to stay, suggesting his “deliverance” and “purpose” were tied to their relationship. Corletto says that even after leaving, McClurkin allegedly tracked him down and continued the abuse.
One alleged incident described in the filing reportedly occurred at a hotel in Niagara Falls in 2013. Corletto claims McClurkin later sent him an email apologizing, referring to himself as the “epitome of a desperate dirty ‘old man.’” The email was included as an exhibit in the lawsuit.
Corletto alleges the incidents left him severely depressed and suicidal, leading him to briefly return to the church before permanently cutting off contact.
Attorney Says Lawsuit Is About Accountability
Corletto’s attorney, Thomas Giuffra, told NBC News that the lawsuit is intended to bring accountability and justice.
Giuffra stated that he believes McClurkin took advantage of someone who was “confused and had problems accepting his sexuality, coupled with his religious beliefs.”
Donnie McClurkin’s Career
Donnie McClurkin rose to prominence in the mid-1990s with his self-titled debut album and later became known for gospel hits such as “Stand” and “We Fall Down.” He has won multiple Grammy Awards and has long been a prominent figure in gospel music and Christian ministry.
