Comedians Settle Lawsuit Over Atlanta Airport Drug Search Program
Comedians Eric André and Clayton English have settled a lawsuit concerning a drug search program at the Atlanta airport.
Atlanta, GA, August 18, 2026 —
Comedians Eric André and Clayton English have reached a settlement in a lawsuit filed against the Clayton County Police Department concerning a drug search program at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The lawsuit, which alleged discriminatory practices, has been resolved, though specific terms of the settlement were not immediately disclosed.
The program, known as the “Roving Interdiction Unit,” involved plainclothes officers who would approach travelers in the airport, requesting to search their luggage and persons. Both André and English, who are Black comedians, claimed they were targeted and subjected to unwarranted searches by officers participating in this program. André stated in a previous interview that he was asked to consent to a search of his belongings while traveling through the airport.
The lawsuit aimed to address concerns that the drug search program disproportionately targeted Black travelers. Legal representatives for the comedians argued that the program allowed for arbitrary stops and searches based on race, violating constitutional rights. The Clayton County Police Department, however, maintained that the program was conducted legally and without bias.
Details regarding the financial or other terms of the settlement have not been made public. The resolution of the lawsuit brings an end to the legal proceedings that have been ongoing. The original complaint highlighted specific instances involving the comedians and sought to reform or end the practices of the interdiction unit.
The airport drug search program has been a point of contention, with critics arguing that such tactics can lead to profiling and infringement of civil liberties. Proponents of the program have stated that it is a necessary tool for law enforcement to combat drug trafficking. The settlement signifies an agreement between the parties involved to conclude the legal dispute without further court action.
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