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BY Kofi Oppong Kyekyeku, 5:30pm January 09, 2025,

Joe Budden clears lewdness charge after judge rules in his favor

by Kofi Oppong Kyekyeku, 5:30pm January 09, 2025,
Joe Budden
Joe Budden - Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

American rapper-turned-broadcaster Joe Budden has shared details about how charges of lewdness filed against him were dismissed following a court appearance. Budden discussed the proceedings during the latest episode of The Joe Budden Podcast.

According to Budden, the judge presiding over the case ruled that his actions, as captured on the plaintiff’s Ring camera footage, did not violate laws regarding lewdness or stalking.

“She was fair, reasonable, heard all the testimony, [and] wasn’t on no bullsh*t,” the “Pump It Up” rapper said, commending the judge’s conduct during the trial.

During the court proceedings, the judge addressed the plaintiff directly, clarifying the findings:
“Mr. Budden was not erect. He was not masturbating,” the judge stated, as recalled by Budden. “The one time that he touched his penis, he appeared to be trying to cover himself. Mr. Budden was not trying to forcibly enter [your place].”

READ ALSO: Why Cardi B is abstaining from sex and dating

The judge concluded that Budden’s actions in the footage showed no sexual intent. Instead, the video suggested that Budden was attempting to avoid urinating on himself, leading to the dismissal of the lewdness charge.

Although both lewdness and stalking charges were dismissed, the judge left Budden with a word of caution:
“Mr. Budden, please take the necessary precautions to make sure that this never happens again,” she advised.

The incident reportedly occurred on December 4, 2024, but became public on December 31, 2024, when the Edgewater Police Department announced charges against the 44-year-old podcaster.

Edgewater Police Chief Donald Martin stated that officers were called to an apartment complex in Edgewater, New Jersey, after a resident reported Budden appearing on their doorbell camera. The footage allegedly showed Budden naked, attempting to input a code at their door before retreating to his apartment across the hall.

The caller also reported that their two juvenile daughters had been viewing the doorbell camera footage live on their phones when the incident occurred.

Following weeks of investigation, charges were filed against Budden. However, with the judge’s ruling, the case has now been resolved, seemingly bringing the legal matter to a close.

READ ALSO: Jay-Z seeks dismissal of rape lawsuit in newly filed motion

Below is a video of Joe Budden talking about the ruling.

Last Edited by:Kofi Oppong Kyekyeku Updated: January 9, 2025

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