Afroman sued by Ohio officers over use of their images in music videos

Search at Afroman’s home leads to lawsuit

A search was conducted at Afroman’s home in Adams County, Ohio, on Aug. 21, 2022, under a “lawfully issued search warrant,” according to the complaint filed on March 13, CBS News reported.

Police were looking for evidence of drugs

Photos of the warrant obtained by WXIX said officers were looking for evidence of drug possession, drug paraphernalia, trafficking and kidnapping.

Social media use causes lawsuit

Seven members of law enforcement said that videos and images were posted across social media and used to make music videos that “clearly portray” their images and likenesses. They are now suing the rapper for unauthorized use of an individual’s persona, invasion of privacy by misappropriation and invasion of privacy by false light publicity.

Officers say they were harmed by the videos

The officers said the videos and images made them “subjected to ridicule” and “made it more difficult and even more dangerous” for them to do their jobs, alleging they have been targeted by death threats.

No evidence of trafficking or kidnapping

The police found no evidence of drug trafficking or kidnapping. They did seize about $5,000 that Afroman said he had earned from appearances. But when they returned the money last year, WXIX reported that the rapper claimed $400 was missing. An investigation was started by Ohio’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation to look into the alleged missing money.

Afroman’s response

Afroman, who is known for his song “Because I Got High,” said the search was based on a “false warrant” that “put the Adams county sheriff in a position to attempt to kill me.” He also said the officers stole money from him so that act did away with their “right of privacy.”

Request for trial by jury

They have requested a trial by jury.

Credit: https://www.wokv.com/news/trending/police-sue-afroman-after-he-used-footage-search-videos-social-media/ETARXUKLTFDMHC55CFE4UWTLVU/

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