Grammy-winning singer Donnie McClurkin accused of sexually abusing young man

Donnie McClurkin is accused of sexually abusing a young man over years while acting as his mentor and pastor

Grammy-winning gospel singer and pastor Donnie McClurkin is facing serious allegations of sexual abuse spanning several years. Giuseppe Corletto, the man filing the lawsuit, claims he was groomed and abused while seeking guidance from McClurkin after reading his 2001 book about overcoming homosexuality through faith. Corletto says he initially viewed the interactions as mentorship, but the abuse began during so-called ‘pray the gay away’ sessions and continued during work trips and at McClurkin’s church, Perfecting Faith Church, in Long Island, New York.

The lawsuit alleges that McClurkin used spiritual guidance to manipulate and isolate Corletto, escalating the abuse even when the man attempted to leave. Corletto described being blamed for incidents and struggling with intense shame and confusion, including during public services where his tears were reportedly used to inspire congregants. The abuse allegedly continued over many years, culminating in a sexual assault at a Niagara Falls hotel in 2013, after which McClurkin reportedly sent an apology email describing himself as a “dirty old man.”

McClurkin, now 66, has denied the allegations through his attorney, Greg Lisi, calling them ‘categorically false’ and claiming they mischaracterise interactions that occurred over a decade or more ago. Despite this, Corletto says the email confirmed McClurkin’s guilt, offering a measure of relief and validation after years of emotional turmoil.

The lawsuit is filed under New York City’s Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law, which allows victims to pursue cases that might otherwise have been barred by statute of limitations. Corletto’s attorney, Thomas Giuffra, said the aim of the lawsuit is to secure compensation, closure, and justice for his client, who is now married and says he has found peace after embracing his sexuality.

Corletto continues to engage with faith through praise and worship music, though he has struggled to participate in traditional church services. The case brings renewed attention to the challenges faced by individuals reconciling sexual identity and religious upbringing, as well as the responsibility of influential mentors.