Why it matters: Afroman, a musician best known for his viral song “Because I Got High,” is being sued by seven Ohio law enforcement officers for emotional distress and violation of privacy after he posted footage of them searching his home on social media. The officers further claimed that they’ve become the subject of ridicule by Afroman fans, making it “more dangerous” for them to continue working, and that they’ve received death threats.
What they are saying: The officers claim that exposing people’s faces without consent is a misdemeanor under the Ohio Revised Code. They’re asking that Afroman remove all videos and photos that feature them online, and that they be entitled to his proceeds gained from the songs, music videos, and live event tickets, in addition to his brand.
The big picture: The lawsuit calls into question the use of body cameras and security cameras in law enforcement searches, and raises issues around privacy rights of police officers. It also highlights the tension between law enforcement and those advocating for criminal justice reform, particularly with regards to the legalization and decriminalization of cannabis.
What to watch: This lawsuit could set a precedent for future cases involving the use of law enforcement footage and the legal privacy rights of officers. It also remains to be seen how Afroman’s presidential campaign may be impacted by this lawsuit and any further legal action.
My take: While it’s understandable that the officers feel violated by the use of their images without consent, the lawsuit seems like an infringement on Afroman’s right to free speech and creative expression. It also raises questions around the power dynamics at play in law enforcement and the accountability of officers in searches. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in court and what kind of precedent it sets for the future.
