Smokey Robinson In Court

A judge has ruled that the four housekeepers suing Smokey Robinson for sexual assault can keep their anonymity. They are free to move forward with their $50 million (£37 million) lawsuit against the Motown star using pseudonyms. Robinson had filed a motion asking the court to strike down the women’s complaint and force them to refile using their real names.

He claimed the women waived their right to anonymity when they appeared at a press conference in May wearing masks and sunglasses. Their lawyers told reporters that the women were Latina and didn’t step forward sooner in part due to concerns they might face “reprisals” related to their immigration status. Judge Brazile ruled that the women could proceed with pseudonyms, but reserved the right to change his mind as the case progresses.

“This early in the case, I don’t think their identities need to be revealed. Maybe later, but for now, you’re not harmed. You know who they are,” Brazile said. He then set a trial date for 11 October 2027, explaining that Robinson’s advanced age, 85, gave him priority. Other new trials are currently being set three years in the future. The Being With You singer is counter-suing the Jane Does with a $500 million (£370 million) defamation and elder abuse suit.