Fat Joe Accused of Paying for Sex with Minors Rapper Says $20M Suit Is Lies and Extortion
3 minute readPublished: Friday, June 20, 2025 at 3:47 pm
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(756x266:758x268)/Fat-Joe-backstage-at-Dick-Clarks-New-Years-Rockin-Eve-062025-cb8ee65dfa31457dbfcac31d08ac302c.jpg)
Fat Joe Faces $20 Million Lawsuit Alleging Sexual Misconduct and Exploitation
Rapper Fat Joe, whose legal name is Joseph Cartagena, is facing a $20 million lawsuit filed by his former hype man, Terrance T.A. Dixon. The complaint, obtained by PEOPLE, alleges a range of serious misconduct, including sexual manipulation, coercive labor exploitation, financial fraud, violent intimidation, and psychological coercion.
Dixon's lawsuit contains particularly disturbing allegations. He claims to have witnessed Cartagena engaging in sexual relationships with minors, specifically 15- and 16-year-old children. The complaint details an instance where the rapper allegedly provided cash, clothing, and paid a cell phone bill in exchange for sexual acts with a 16-year-old girl.
In response to the allegations, Fat Joe, through his attorney Joe Tacopina, has vehemently denied all wrongdoing. Tacopina characterized the lawsuit as a retaliatory act and a blatant attempt to extort the rapper. He stated that law enforcement is aware of the alleged extortion and that the allegations are "complete fabrications" designed to damage Cartagena's reputation and force a settlement. Tacopina also indicated that legal action has been taken to counter the claims and hold those involved accountable.
The lawsuit also details Dixon's claims of being coerced into over 4,000 sexual acts over 16 years to maintain his position. He further alleges that he was consistently underpaid, denied songwriting credits, and deliberately concealed from royalties and backend compensation. The lawsuit follows a defamation suit filed by Cartagena against Dixon and his attorney two months prior. Tacopina views the current lawsuit as an attempt to deflect attention from the initial civil suit, which he claims exposed a coordinated scheme to extort Cartagena.
BNN's Perspective:
The allegations against Fat Joe are deeply troubling and, if proven true, represent a severe abuse of power. However, it is crucial to remember that these are accusations, and the legal process must be allowed to unfold. The conflicting narratives presented by both sides highlight the complexity of the situation. While the severity of the claims demands thorough investigation, it is equally important to consider the possibility of false accusations and the potential for reputational damage. A fair and impartial legal process is essential to determine the truth and ensure justice for all parties involved.
Keywords: Fat Joe, Joseph Cartagena, lawsuit, sexual misconduct, exploitation, Terrance T.A. Dixon, coercion, financial fraud, minors, extortion, defamation, legal action, allegations, attorney, Joe Tacopina, rapper, civil suit, underpaid, royalties, sexual acts