Joe Budden, the former rapper turned podcast host, has addressed charges of lewdness filed against him following a peculiar incident on December 4. According to Edgewater Police Department in New Jersey, Budden allegedly stood naked outside his neighbor’s apartment, attempting to input a keypad code before returning to his own residence.
The police released a statement about the charges on December 31, sparking significant public attention. Budden responded casually on X, formerly Twitter, writing, “Y’all so dramatic lol.” He also shared a meme on Instagram of a man laughing, suggesting he found the reaction overblown.
Legal Defense and Accusations of Bias
Budden’s attorney, Nima Ameri, criticized the handling of the case, claiming the charges are minor and racially motivated. “Mr. Budden is saddened by Police Chief Martin’s press release,” Ameri stated to TMZ. She accused the chief of using the situation to gain publicity, alleging that Budden’s cross complaints, which include more serious accusations, have been ignored.
“Chief Martin should seek publicity by doing notable policing, not inflaming disorderly person allegations,” Ameri added. She further argued that the chief’s comments were reckless and biased, saying, “His choice to single out Mr. Budden is self-motivated and based on Mr. Budden’s race and celebrity status.”
The Perspective of Joe Budden
Addressing the incident on The Joe Budden Podcast, Budden offered an explanation, attributing his actions to sleepwalking. “I just sleptwalk somewhere I shouldn’t have,” he said humorously. “And you know how I sleep: butt-ass [naked]! Good naked sleepwalking, I just did it again [laughs].”
Budden has since recorded podcast episodes at alternative locations, raising speculation about how the incident has impacted his personal life. Despite this, he seems confident about resolving the matter in court. The police press release emphasized that these charges are accusations and that Budden is presumed innocent until proven guilty.