Kari Krome, former member of The Runaways, has reached a partial settlement in her sexual assault case against the estate of Kim Fowley. Rolling Stone reported this development.
The publication’s recent coverage outlined the settlement details and upcoming court proceedings for the ongoing legal matter.
Rolling Stone stated that Kari Krome has reached a partial settlement with Kim Fowley’s estate. The outlet reported that a hearing on the proposed pact is scheduled for January 14 and will be held in a probate court. It also noted that a jury trial for the remainder of the case is set to be held on March 30.
The case involves allegations against Fowley, who was the manager and producer of the influential 1970s rock band The Runaways. This legal development comes nearly a decade after Fowley’s death. It adds to a growing pattern of allegations against figures in the 1970s Los Angeles music scene.
Music Times revealed that Krome alleges Fowley began grooming and assaulting her in 1974 when she was just 13 years old. The abuse continued multiple times over the following year while he was in his mid-30s. Court filings detail disturbing allegations, including claims that Fowley once dragged her into his bedroom by her ankle. He assaulted her while other teen band members slept nearby.
The case extends beyond Fowley’s estate. Music Times noted that Krome’s civil claims against former KROQ DJ Rodney Bingenheimer remain active. She alleges he used his influence in the Los Angeles music scene to groom and assault her multiple times starting when she was 13. He has denied these allegations.
Additional court documents reveal that Krome has also accused Bingenheimer’s associate, real estate broker Michael Herman, of helping transfer and sell a California property in 2025 for nearly $1.7 million. This was allegedly done in an attempt to hide assets from a potential judgment. This adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing legal proceedings.
Far Out Magazine confirmed that Krome has publicly corroborated earlier sexual assault allegations made by former bandmate Jackie Fuchs against Fowley. After Fowley’s death in 2015, Fuchs came forward claiming that he drugged and raped her. This further amplified scrutiny of his legacy in the music industry.
Further developments are expected as the legal proceedings continue through the scheduled court dates. The partial settlement represents just one aspect of the broader case against multiple defendants.
