A judge has ruled, that four women accusing Motown legend Smokey Robinson of sexual misconduct in a $50 million lawsuit can remain anonymous as Jane Does for now. The women, former employees alleging sexual abuse, will maintain their anonymity despite Robinson’s motion to strike their complaint, which argued that their pseudonyms hindered the defense’s ability to subpoena witnesses, per Rolling Stone.
“We are very pleased that the Court has denied the Robinsons' motion to strike our clients' complaint and affirmed their right to remain anonymous,” said the plaintiffs’ attorney, John Harris, in a statement to PEOPLE.
“This ruling protects the privacy and safety of Jane Does One through Four and ensures survivors can seek justice without fear of retribution or public exposure.”
The lawsuit, filed on May 6, alleges Robinson “repeatedly forced his fingers and penis into their vaginas, causing severe and excruciating pain” without consent, using physical barriers, force, or threats to prevent their escape. The complaint also names Robinson’s wife, Frances, married in 2002, alleging she knew of his prior misconduct but failed to intervene, even after settling similar claims.
In response, Robinson and Frances filed a $500 million cross-complaint, accusing the women and their counsel of defamation during a press conference where Harris called Robinson a “serial and sick rapist.” The accusers wore sunglasses and masks to conceal their identities. Robinson’s cross-complaint claims he treated the women like “extended family” and seeks legal relief for the “slanderous statements.”