Ohio — Rapper Afroman has won a jury verdict in his lawsuit with Adams County sheriff’s deputies over his viral “Lemon Pound Cake” music video. The jury concluded that the musician did not defame seven officers, clearing him of all claims.
The legal dispute stems from a 2020 raid on Afroman’s Ohio home, during which deputies allegedly damaged property, including his front gate. Rather than accepting the damages in silence, Afroman created the song and video using surveillance footage from the raid, documenting the incident and seeking to recover losses.
The deputies argued that the video subjected them to ridicule, mental distress, and even danger from anonymous threats. They also alleged that Afroman made false statements in the track. However, the jury sided with Afroman, affirming his right to artistic expression.
The trial lasted three days, beginning Monday and concluding Wednesday morning, with jury deliberations starting shortly before noon. None of the deputies had filed criminal charges following the 2020 raid.
The plaintiffs were seeking significant damages: Lisa Phillips asked for $1.5 million, Brian Newland and Randy Walters each sought $1 million, and the remaining four deputies collectively requested $400,000. The jury’s decision, however, rejected all claims.
Afroman thanked his lawyer, David Osborne, in court after the verdict was read, holding his hands up in triumph. This case highlights ongoing debates over free speech and artistic expression, particularly within the Hip-Hop community, where artists have historically used music to document personal experiences and societal injustices.
