In a shocking lawsuit filed recently, Jermaine Jackson, member of the legendary music group the Jackson 5, has been accused of raping and sexually assaulting a woman in the spring of 1988. The plaintiff, Rita Butler Barrett, claimed to have known Jackson through her husband's personal and business relationship with Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records.

According to Barrett's complaint, Jackson allegedly forced himself into her home in the spring of 1988 and violently assaulted her. The complaint further alleges that Jackson conspired to keep the incident quiet in order to safeguard his reputation. It implicated Berry Gordy, who was said to have withheld and concealed the acts, allowing Jackson and others to continue profiting from his work and reputation.

The lawsuit, filed against Jackson, his businesses Jermaine L. Jackson Music Productions Inc. and Work Records, includes allegations of sexual battery, assault, and negligence. The complaint also accuses Jackson and others of conspiring to cover up the assault, protecting their reputations and profits.

Barrett, who suffered in silence and shame for decades, claims to still experience great emotional distress, fear, anxiety, humiliation, and other physical and emotional injuries as a result of the alleged assault and the subsequent cover-up.

Similar acts in the past have allowed other victims to bring high-profile celebrities to court. For instance, lawsuits against Sean "Diddy" Combs and Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler were made possible by a law passed in New York.

NBC News has reached out to representatives for Jackson and Gordy for comment on the matter. As the case unfolds, the world waits to see how this accusation against Jermaine Jackson, a once-beloved member of the iconic Jackson 5, will impact his reputation and legacy.