Donnie McClurkin has finally spoken out following accusations that he sexually abused a former congregant, telling supporters he “will be vindicated.”
In a newly filed civil lawsuit in Manhattan Supreme Court in New York, the accuser, Giuseppe Corletto, alleges that the Grammy-winning gospel singer and pastor subjected him to grooming, manipulation, and sexual assault.
When the claims initially surfaced, McClurkin firmly denied them through his lawyer, who described the accusations as “categorically false,” insisting the pastor never engaged in sexual abuse or coercion and that the lawsuit distorts interactions that allegedly took place decades ago.
On Wednesday (January 7), McClurkin released a more detailed response, which he shared on his official Instagram page.
“With all humility, faith, and deep respect for Christ and this global gospel music and ministry community which has shaped my life, my calling, and my character; I address this letter,” he wrote, once again rejecting the allegations.
“Many of you are aware of the profane allegations of sexual assault/rape and coercion that have been recently lodged against me. I want to state clearly and unequivocally that these allegations are contrived and untrue~!
“I understand the weight of such false claims, especially in our community rooted in faith, trust, and the teachings of Jesus Christ. And Sexual violence, in any form, is a real and painful reality for many and not to be used frivolously. True Survivors deserve to be heard, protected, and supported! At the same time, the TRUTH matters! And the TRUTH has not been told~!”
McClurkin went on to say, “And though I know many have already formed their opinions based on initial belief and controversy, as we often do with matters of this false nature, I ask that this community show patience and trust God’s timing for the full truth to be revealed.
“I have always aimed to live and serve with integrity, transparency, godly care, and responsibility in carrying out my Christian life and calling. Any claim of salacious behavior or ANY misconduct that harmed, exploited, or took advantage of anyone, or that misused my position, leadership, or influence in any way, is completely and emphatically untrue.”
Wrapping up his statement, which was released through his attorney, Gregory S. Lisi, McClurkin added, “My love for and walk with Christ means everything to me and is deeply sensitive and sacred… I live to please Him… which is why it is vital that the facts are established carefully, responsibly, and fairly.
“Although I have NOT yet been SERVED with the official legal complaint, I am proactively cooperating fully with the appropriate processes and will vigorously defend myself to the fullest against this defamatory and baseless lawsuit. I am confident that when the truth is fully revealed, I will be vindicated.”
McClurkin ended by asking his supporters to “please pray for the accuser” and expressed gratitude for their “continued prayers, support, and faith.”
According to the lawsuit, the alleged abuse reportedly took place during what were described as spiritual counseling sessions meant to change Corletto’s sexuality. The complaint claims the situation escalated after Corletto began working as McClurkin’s assistant and traveling with him.
Corletto alleged that the power imbalance — with McClurkin acting as both a spiritual authority and employer — made it hard for him to speak out. “I thought I was to blame,” he said. “I was brainwashed to think that my deliverance was wrapped up in him.”
The lawsuit details alleged incidents at hotels during work trips and at McClurkin’s church, Perfecting Faith Church, claiming McClurkin used religious language and scripture to pressure Corletto into silence. Corletto says he tried to leave several times but was convinced to stay through comparisons to biblical mentor-mentee relationships.
One of the most serious allegations involves an email McClurkin is accused of sending after an incident in 2013. In the message, he allegedly apologized for forcing Corletto into situations he said no to, reportedly referring to himself as “a desperate dirty ‘old man.’”
Corletto said discovering the alleged email years later helped him realize he “wasn’t crazy” and hadn’t imagined what happened.
