The judge in Smokey Robinson’s sexual assault case has ruled that his accusers are allowed to remain anonymous.
In court documents obtained by Complex, Judge Kevin C. Brazile ruled on Thursday (September 11) that his four accusers, who were all former employees, could continue in the case as Jane Does.
Robinson had previously filed a motion to strike their complaint in May, in which his lawyer argued that since their identities were withheld, subpoenaing witnesses was difficult to do.
In a statement to People, the plaintiffs’ lawyer, John Harris, expressed gratitude for the decision. “We are very pleased that the Court has denied the Robinsons' motion to strike our clients' complaint and has affirmed their right to remain anonymous throughout these proceedings,” wrote Harris.
“This ruling protects the privacy and safety of Jane Does One through Four and ensures that survivors can continue to seek justice without fear of retribution or public exposure,” he added. “We will continue to advocate vigorously on their behalf and ensure that their voices are heard when they have their day in court.”
Though the judge is preventing the identities of the four women from being revealed right now, that could change in the future. According to Rolling Stone, Judge Brazile said in the court that he doesn’t think the women’s identities need to be revealed “this early in the case,” but potentially, “maybe later.”
Robinson’s trial date is currently set for October 11, 2027. The judge has prioritized the case because of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee's age, since most civil trials are usually scheduled for three years out.
Robinson was sued on May 6 by the four Jane Does who alleged the singer “repeatedly forced his fingers and penis into their vaginas, causing severe and excruciating pain” without their consent. Additionally, they alleged that he used “physical barriers, force, threats of force” to prevent them from leaving while being assaulted.
Weeks after the lawsuit was filed, Robinson and his wife Frances, who was named in the case, filed a $500 million cross-complaint that accused the Jane Does and their attorneys of defaming the singer.