Grammy-winning gospel singer and pastor Donnie McClurkin has been accused of sexually abusing a young man, according to a newly filed civil lawsuit in the United States.
The lawsuit was filed on January 2, 2026, at the New York State Supreme Court by a man identified as Giuseppe Corletto. In the court documents, Corletto claims McClurkin groomed, manipulated, and sexually abused him over several years while presenting himself as a spiritual mentor.
According to the complaint, Corletto says he met McClurkin in 2003, when he was 21 years old, after attending a church event. At the time, he says he was struggling with his sexuality and turned to McClurkin then a highly respected gospel artist and pastor for guidance and spiritual support.
The lawsuit alleges that McClurkin offered counseling sessions focused on what was described as efforts to “pray away” same-sex attraction. Corletto claims the relationship later became inappropriate and sexual, with incidents allegedly occurring during travel and private meetings.
Court documents further claim that McClurkin used his position of spiritual authority to control and silence the young man, making it difficult for him to come forward earlier. The plaintiff says the alleged abuse caused long-term emotional trauma, shame, and disruption to his personal life.
As part of the lawsuit, Corletto included an email he claims was sent by McClurkin in 2013, in which the pastor allegedly apologized and acknowledged inappropriate behavior. This email is being cited by the plaintiff as supporting evidence.
McClurkin, however, has strongly denied all allegations. Through his legal team, the gospel singer described the claims as “categorically false” and said they grossly misrepresent his relationship with the accuser. His attorney insists that McClurkin never engaged in abusive or illegal conduct.
Donnie McClurkin is one of the most influential figures in contemporary gospel music, with multiple Grammy Awards and decades of ministry. He has also been publicly known for speaking about his faith and personal struggles in the past.
It is important to note that this case is a civil lawsuit, not a criminal conviction. No court ruling has been made, and the allegations remain unproven. The case is expected to proceed through the legal system, where evidence from both sides will be examined.
As the lawsuit develops, more details may emerge through court hearings or legal filings. The PandoraWeb will continue to monitor the case and provide updates as they become available.
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