L.A. Reid Settles Sexual Assault Lawsuit Brought by Former Music Executive Drew Dixon

Grammy-winning music executive Antonio “L.A.” Reid has reached a last-minute settlement in a lawsuit filed by former Arista Records executive Drew Dixon, who accused him of sexual assault and retaliation in the early 2000s. The agreement was finalized Monday just before jury selection was set to begin. Terms were not disclosed, and Reid’s attorney said the matter was resolved amicably without any admission of liability.
Dixon brought the case under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which temporarily reopened the statute of limitations for sexual misconduct claims. In a statement, Dixon said she hoped her advocacy surrounding the law would help create a safer music industry, calling the settlement “a ray of light” for survivors. She alleged Reid assaulted her twice in 2001 and later retaliated by humiliating her professionally and undermining her career after she distanced herself from him.
The lawsuit detailed claims of ongoing harassment, career sabotage, and emotional distress, asserting that Dixon was ultimately forced out of the industry. The settlement avoids a public trial that was expected to feature high-profile witnesses, including John Legend. Dixon’s attorney praised her role in advancing survivor advocacy, saying her efforts have helped shift power dynamics within the music business.










