Fat Joe is facing serious legal trouble after his former hype man filed a $20 million lawsuit accusing the rapper of disturbing behavior — including allegations of sexual misconduct with minors.
The lawsuit, filed by Terrance “T.A.” Dixon in Manhattan Supreme Court on Thursday, June 19, includes graphic claims dating back to the early 2000s. Dixon alleges he personally witnessed Fat Joe, whose real name is Joseph Cartagena, “engage in sexual relations” with underage girls as young as 15, according to court documents obtained by Page Six. He claims the 54-year-old “Lean Back” singer offered money, clothing, and even paid a minor’s cell phone bill in exchange for sexual favors.
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One alleged victim was a 16-year-old Dominican girl who Dixon says performed oral sex and other acts on Fat Joe. Another girl, described in the lawsuit as a 15-year-old Caucasian non-U.S. citizen, allegedly began a sexual relationship with the Bronx-born artist after a concert overseas. Dixon claims the rap veteran later flew her to New York and Miami multiple times and even paid for her to undergo a Brazilian Butt Lift.
Dixon, who worked with Fat Joe for over a decade, also alleges emotional abuse and labor exploitation. He says he was consistently underpaid, denied songwriting credits, and excluded from backend royalties.
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The Grammy-nominated artist has denied all allegations through his attorney, Joe Tacopina.
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Shortly after the lawsuit was filed, Tacopina, 59, issued a statement calling the claims “a blatant act of retaliation” and “complete fabrications.”
“The lawsuit filed by Tyrone Blackburn and Terrance Dixon is a desperate attempt to deflect attention from the civil suit we filed first,” the statement read. Tacopina also accused Dixon and his attorney of attempting to extort Fat Joe and said law enforcement is aware of the alleged scheme. “Mr. Cartagena will not be intimidated,” he added.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available 24 hours a day through RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.