Judge Keeps Plaintiffs Anonymous in Smokey Robinson Case

A Los Angeles judge on Thursday ruled that four former housekeepers suing Motown legend Smokey Robinson can proceed with their $50 million civil lawsuit while keeping their identities hidden for now, denying the singer’s bid to unmask them. The ruling came at a morning hearing in downtown Los Angeles before Los Angeles County Judge Kevin C. Brazile, who also set a trial date of October 11, 2027.

The plaintiffs, who filed their complaint in May under Jane Doe pseudonyms, allege that Robinson repeatedly sexually assaulted them during periods of employment that stretch back more than a decade. Their 27-page complaint accuses Robinson of multiple rapes and instances of sexual assault and battery, false imprisonment, gender violence, sexual harassment, negligence and emotional distress. The women say they delayed reporting the alleged conduct because of fears tied to immigration status, reprisals, public embarrassment and the defendant’s celebrity status. They also have filed police reports, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is investigating; no criminal charges have been filed.

Robinson, 85, has denied the allegations and filed a $500 million cross-complaint accusing...