Fat Joe Faces Lawsuit Over Allegations of Coercion

Hip-hop artist Fat Joe has been accused of compelling his former hype man to participate in thousands of sexual acts while he oversaw the events, according to a staggering $20 million lawsuit.

The rapper, known as Joseph Antonio Cartagena, is alleged to have directed former employee Terrance “Ta” Dixon to engage in approximately 4,000 sexual encounters over a 16-year span. This claim is part of a federal lawsuit that was filed in the Southern District of New York on Thursday.

Reports suggest that Cartagena “provided explicit instructions and commands” during these incidents. The lawsuit states that he “deliberately created scenarios” intended to facilitate and enhance these encounters.

According to the documents, the rapper utilized these actions not just for personal satisfaction but as a means of exerting control, contributing to Dixon’s “psychological coercion.”

Dixon, who worked with Fat Joe as a lyricist, background vocalist, and bodyguard from 2005 to 2022, is quoted in the lawsuit expressing that he was fearful of immediate retaliation and did not want to engage in sexual acts.

The situation reportedly escalated when, in one instance, after Dixon declined to comply, Cartagena allegedly canceled his flight, leaving him stranded without any means to pay.

The lawsuit further claims that the “psychological toll” on Dixon is immeasurable.

Additional allegations include that Dixon witnessed the rapper engaging in sexual activities with underage girls, aged 15 and 16.

The lawsuit also names Roc Nation, claiming that the entertainment firm either knew or should have been aware of the misconduct but failed to take any action.

Dixon, who claims co-authorship of songs like “Congratulations” and “Ice Cream,” also argues that he has been underpaid.

In response, Cartagena’s attorney, Joseph Takopina, described Dixon’s claims as “a blatant act of retaliation” and a “desperate attempt to divert attention” from a previous lawsuit filed in April.

Takopina expressed to NBC that the allegations are entirely fabricated and intended to damage Cartagena’s reputation and coerce a settlement through public pressure. He stated that actions are being taken to reveal what he termed a fraudulent campaign and to hold those responsible accountable.