Donnie McClurkin is speaking out for the first time after a man named Giuseppe Corletto accused him of years of sexual assault during prayer sessions. McClurkin addressed the claims through his attorney, Gregory S. Lisi, on his official Instagram account.
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Giuseppe Corletto Opens Up About Alleged Claims Involving Donnie McClurkin
According to USA Today, Giuseppe Corletto met Donnie McClurkin at his Long Island church in August 2003. In the lawsuit, Corletto claims the pastor assured him he would help “deliver” him from homosexuality. He said McClurkin committed to the idea so much that when he was his personal assistant, the gospel singer led “pray the gay away” spiritual sessions, during which McClurkin allegedly groped his genitals without consent. Additionally, Giuseppe also claims that he was coerced by Donnie into other unwanted sexual acts between 2007 and 2015. He claims he tried to confide in the church staff about the alleged abuse, but they did nothing.
Giuseppe also alleges that he was forced to take part in sexual activity in hotel rooms. He says he tried to leave the church in 2008, but Donnie purportedly tracked down his location and assaulted him twice. Giuseppe adds that he attempted to quit multiple times but says McClurkin denied his requests.
Donnie McClurkin Addresses Sexual Assault Claims From Giuseppe
In a lengthy statement on Instagram, Donnie McClurkin denied Giuseppe’s accusations.
“I want to state clearly and unequivocally that these allegations are contrived and untrue.”
He also said he has always acted with integrity and felt offended by any suggestion that he would use his position in the church to engage in those acts.
“I have always sought to conduct myself with integrity, transparency, godly care, and responsibility in the fulfillment of my Christian life and duties. This accusation of salacious engagement or ANY misconduct that harmed, exploited, or took advantage of anyone and misused my position, leadership, or influence in any way in these false accusations is emphatically untrue.”
McClurkin’s Lawyer Continues To Defend His Innocence
As of right now, Giuseppe Corletto hasn’t shared what he’s seeking from McClurkin. Meanwhile, Donnie’s lawyer is standing ten toes down and defending his innocence. In a recent statement to Billboard, Lisi said the lawsuit completely misrepresents their encounters.
“At no time did Pastor McClurkin engage in any form of sexual abuse, assault, or sexual coercion of Mr. Corletto. The claims set forth in the lawsuit grossly mischaracterize their interactions, which occurred over a decade, and some accusations over two decades ago,” Gregory Lisi said.
