Sexual Offenses Recognized in Ohio

Sexual assault is a deeply troubling issue that affects people and families across Ohio, including a disturbing number of minors. Ohio’s Children’s Advocacy Centers tracked a staggering 6,717 cases of reported sexual abuse among individuals aged 0 to 18 in 2021 alone. Ohio, like many states, has adopted aggressive laws to punish perpetrators of sexual assault and keep them off the streets.

Although it’s vital that perpetrators of sexual assault be held criminally accountable, the criminal justice system is primarily interested in punishing criminal behavior and protecting the public. It’s not particularly interested in ensuring victims and their families recover physically, psychologically and financially from the harm they suffered.

Sexual assault injury attorneys, like those at the Buckeye Law Group, are committed to pursuing civil cases against perpetrators of these heinous crimes and the businesses or people who enable them. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of sexual offenses, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-800-411-PAIN.

Rape

Rape covers more than just forcing victims into sexual contact – it also applies to scenarios in which a victim is coerced into sexual activities or is taken advantage of sexually when incapacitated. The severity of the felony charge in Ohio varies based on factors like the age of the victim and the relationship between the parties.

Ohio’s broad definition of what constitutes rape ensures that perpetrators can’t easily find workarounds to abuse others. All rapes in Ohio are first-degree felonies, demonstrating the seriousness with which the state approaches these heinous crimes.

From a civil perspective, it’s important to recognize the differing burdens of proof compared to criminal cases. Even if the perpetrator or rape isn’t convicted in a criminal court, victims may still be able to pursue a successful civil claim based on the “preponderance of evidence” standard.

Sexual Battery

Ohio law recognizes sexual battery as the unlawful touching of intimate areas without consent. Certain factors play a role in determining what rises to the level of sexual battery.

Force, for instance, adds an element of coercion, altering the nature of the act from consensual to invasive. Ohio's legal stance on sexual battery reflects a commitment to ensuring that any intimate interaction is rooted in genuine consent rather than the exertion of power.

Gross Sexual Imposition

Gross sexual imposition encompasses non-consensual sexual contact, with severity contingent on factors such as age and force.

What sets Ohio's legal approach apart is its commitment to a comprehensive understanding of each case. By doing so, Ohio's legal framework aims to ensure that justice is not only served but that it is tailored to the unique circumstances of each case.

Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor

Specific laws address sexual conduct with minors, underscoring the importance of protecting the younger population. Even seemingly consensual acts with individuals below the age of consent (16 in Ohio) are strictly prohibited.

Importuning

Importuning has become a much more important legal doctrine in the past 20 years with the rise of the internet and social media. This offense involves solicitation or enticement, often through online communication. Predators exploit the internet's anonymity to coerce vulnerable individuals, especially children who don’t comprehend the motivations of predators or have the life experience and wisdom to recognize the warning signs or the risks posed by sexual deviants. 

Public Indecency

Any kind of sexual conduct is prohibited in public spaces in Ohio. It’s also illegal to show one’s private parts in public spaces or on private property if it’s visible to others in a public place. Public indecency is one of the lesser offenses in Ohio and is typically charged as a fourth-degree misdemeanor, but can be escalated to a felony if a person exposes themselves to a minor. 

Voyeurism

Voyeurism involves the secretive observation or recording of individuals without their consent. Everyone has the right to feel secure in their personal moments and shouldn’t be forced to feel paranoid or threatened about people encroaching on their privacy. Voyeurism has also become a larger issue in Ohio and throughout the country as recording devices have become smaller and the internet has created a demand ecosystem for illegal voyeuristic videos and photos. 

Sexual Harassment

Ohio holds perpetrators of sexual harassment accountable for unwanted advances and coercion. The Ohio Civil Rights Commission and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission are particularly instrumental in seeking out and penalizing workplace sexual harassment. Employers are obligated to foster an environment where every employee feels safe and protected and employees are thoroughly trained on sexual harassment in the workplace.

Human Trafficking

Human trafficking takes an immense toll on the people and families victimized by these awful crimes. The state of Ohio takes trafficking seriously, including through the Governor’s Human Trafficking Task Force.

Hire a Skilled Ohio Sexual Assault Attorney

Ohio's sexual assault laws reflect a commitment to justice, individual rights and protecting vulnerable populations. Understanding these laws is crucial for both victims and those accused of misconduct. If you're dealing with a sexual assault case in Ohio, seeking legal assistance is essential.

For help in Ohio, consider exploring the services of Buckeye Accident Attorneys. Contact us on our website or give us a call at 1-800-411-PAIN. Remember, understanding your rights and seeking support is a crucial step towards justice.