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Afroman Testifies as Deputies’ Lawsuit Over Raid Footage Goes to Trial in Ohio

The case tests the reach of First Amendment protections over artistic use of home-surveillance footage of police.

Overview

  • Jury selection began Monday, and Afroman took the stand Tuesday, asserting his videos were protected speech and blaming deputies for the fallout.
  • Deputies suing him say he used their likeness without consent in videos and merchandise, causing humiliation, reputational harm and death threats.
  • The August 2022 search, conducted under a warrant citing drug trafficking and kidnapping, resulted in no charges after deputies broke down his door with long guns drawn, according to footage.
  • Foreman used his home security recordings in viral videos including Lemon Pound Cake and Will You Help Me Repair My Door and posted the material on social media.
  • An outside review found a reported $400 shortfall in seized cash was a miscount, and civil-liberties groups warn a verdict against Afroman could chill critical speech.