Judge Permits Anonymity for Smokey Robinson’s Sexual Assault Accusers

## Court Ruling Allows Jane Does to Maintain Anonymity in Lawsuit Against Smokey Robinson

A judge recently issued a ruling that permits four housekeepers—referred to as Jane Does—to proceed with their $50 million sexual assault lawsuit against Smokey Robinson while using pseudonyms.

### Background of the Case

Robinson had sought to have the case dismissed unless the plaintiffs revealed their true identities. He contended that by appearing at a press conference while masked, the women forfeited their right to anonymity. During that event, their lawyers provided some identifying details, stating the women are Latina and had earned below minimum wage. Concerns over potential repercussions linked to their immigration status were cited as reasons for their delayed reporting.

### Arguments Presented

At a morning hearing in Los Angeles, Robinson’s attorney, Christopher Frost, argued that the use of pseudonyms hindered their defense and made it challenging to subpoena witnesses. He shared details from Jane Doe 3’s sealed deposition, asserting that her relationship with Jane Doe 2 and her lack of job-seeking efforts for over a decade were critical pieces of information they wanted to keep hidden.

### Judge’s Stance

Los Angeles County Judge Kevin C. Brazile ruled in favor of the Jane Does, allowing them to use pseudonyms at this stage. He indicated that while he might revisit the issue as the case unfolds, it was premature to reveal their identities. He also set a trial date for October 11, 2027, prioritizing the case due to Robinson’s age.

“It’s early in the case; their identities don’t need to be disclosed now,” Judge Brazile stated, suggesting that any future need for their names would be considered on a case-by-case basis.

### Key Takeaways from the Ruling

In his written ruling, Judge Brazile emphasized that the plaintiffs did not waive their right to anonymity merely because they held a media conference. He acknowledged the serious allegations outlined in the women’s lawsuit, which included allegations of repeated sexual assaults by Robinson and concerns about potential retribution given his celebrity status.

### Details of the Allegations

The legal action emerged in early May when the four women accused Robinson of multiple incidents of sexual battery, false imprisonment, and other forms of gender violence occurring over several years. The women described situations where they claimed Robinson isolated them and forced unwanted sexual contact.

Particularly, one plaintiff, Jane Doe 1, alleged that she was sexually battered multiple times from early 2023 into early 2024. In another instance, Jane Doe 2 described being forced into unwanted sexual acts numerous times during her employment from 2014 to 2020.

### Counterclaims from Robinson

In response to the allegations, Robinson and his wife have filed a $500 million defamation and elder abuse cross-complaint against the housekeepers. They assert that the accusations are fabricated and intended to extort money, claiming they treated the women generously throughout their employment.

### Conclusion

As this high-profile case continues, the legal strategies from both sides will be scrutinized. The court’s decision to allow the use of pseudonyms highlights the sensitive nature of the allegations involved. What are your thoughts on the implications of such high-profile legal battles in the entertainment industry?