NBC News reports that a civil lawsuit has been filed accusing gospel music icon Donnie McClurkin of sexually abusing a young man over a period of years. The lawsuit includes an alleged apology email in which McClurkin reportedly referred to himself as a "dirty old man."
According to the complaint, the accuser, Giuseppe Corletto, says he first sought out McClurkin in 2003 while struggling to reconcile his sexuality with his Christian faith. Corletto alleges that he went to McClurkin's church in New York after reading the singer's autobiographical book, which recounts McClurkin's testimony of overcoming homosexuality through faith.
The lawsuit claims that Corletto, who was 21 at the time, was invited to meet privately with McClurkin and that McClurkin took a personal interest in him. Corletto alleges that what initially appeared to be spiritual mentorship later became grooming.
The complaint further alleges that McClurkin engaged in sexual abuse during what were described as "pray the gay away" spiritual sessions, with the alleged conduct escalating over several years. During this period, Corletto reportedly worked as McClurkin's assistant and traveled frequently with him.
The lawsuit states that following an alleged sexual assault at a hotel in Niagara Falls in 2013, McClurkin sent Corletto an email apologizing for his actions. The complaint quotes McClurkin as allegedly writing, "I am the actual epitome of a desperate dirty 'old man,'" and adding, "I feel so foul... so stupid."
An attorney representing the 66-year-old gospel singer has strongly denied the allegations, stating that they are "categorically false."
At this stage, the claims remain allegations contained in a civil lawsuit, and no court has ruled on their validity. The case is expected to proceed through the legal system.
