“This is a shakedown.” That’s what Motown legend Smokey Robinson is telling the court as he fights back in a growing legal battle stemming from disturbing allegations made against him earlier this year.
On Thursday, June 13, the iconic singer-songwriter filed new court documents, demanding that the woman known as Jane Doe 2 be compelled to give her deposition within the next 14 days — and he’s not stopping there.
Robinson is also asking the court to hit her legal team with sanctions, claiming that their refusal to schedule the deposition is not only delaying justice, but damaging his career and income.
Smokey Says His Career Is Suffering as Case Drags On
In his latest filing, Smokey Robinson, 84, says that every day the case remains unresolved, it’s impacting his ability to tour and earn a living.
“Each day these allegations remain unanswered affects my livelihood,” Robinson’s legal team wrote.
The music icon—famous for hits like “Cruisin’,” “Tracks of My Tears,” and “Being With You”—says he’s ready to defend himself in court, but he can’t move forward until Jane Doe 2 is formally deposed.
His legal team is asking the judge to order the deposition immediately and fine her attorneys $4,762.50 — the exact amount Smokey and his wife Frances say they’ve already shelled out fighting this standoff.
Background: Multiple Sexual Battery Allegations
These recent legal maneuvers are the latest development in a disturbing case first filed in May 2025, in which multiple women accused Robinson of sexual misconduct, including a 2015 incident now under scrutiny.
While Smokey Robinson has vigorously denied all allegations, one of the most vocal accusers — Jane Doe 2 — has yet to provide a sworn statement or be cross-examined under oath.
Robinson’s camp believes the delay is deliberate.
“This Is a Shakedown” – Smokey Speaks Out
In a candid video shared earlier this month, Smokey broke his silence, calling the accusations against him “baseless” and “outrageous.”
“This is a shakedown,” he said bluntly. “These women are not telling the truth.”
Robinson went on to say the accusations have damaged his family, his reputation, and his peace of mind—but vowed to fight until his name is cleared.
Legal Tensions Rising
The court documents filed Thursday are pushing the judge to act quickly. Smokey’s legal team argues that without Jane Doe 2’s testimony, they can’t properly prepare their defense.
They’re also citing professional misconduct on the part of her attorneys, stating that delaying discovery is not only unfair but unethical.
The sanctions sought—$4,762.50—reflect the Robinsons’ legal expenses for trying to resolve the issue outside of court.
So far, Jane Doe 2’s legal team has not responded publicly to the latest filing, and TMZ reports that repeated requests for comment have gone unanswered.
What Happens Next?
The court is expected to rule soon on whether to compel the deposition and impose sanctions. If granted, Jane Doe 2 would be required to sit for questioning within two weeks, finally moving the case forward.
Two other accusers, whose identities also remain protected, have not publicly responded to this latest legal development.
Meanwhile, fans of the Motown legend are rallying around him, flooding social media with messages of support—and demanding that the case be resolved quickly and fairly.
???? What’s Your Take?
Should the court force Jane Doe 2 to testify now?
Are Smokey’s legal rights being violated by the delay?
Let us know what you think in the comments.
And stay tuned for more updates as this high-stakes case continues to unfold.
