There are numerous sex crimes common in Ohio. This article will expand on some of the most common and explain the consequences associated with each.
· Rape: An individual can be charged with rape if they engage in sexual conduct with another person when the offender purposely compels the other person to submit by force or threat of force. This offense is punishable as a felony of the first degree and, depending on the age of the victim, may result in life imprisonment or life without parole.
·
Sexual Battery: There are several requirements to
be charged with sexual battery. Here are a few of them. This offense is
punishable as a felony of the second or third degree and may result in
mandatory prison terms:
o
Knowingly
coercing another person to submit by any means that prevents resistance;
o
Knowing the
other person’s ability to control their conduct is substantially impaired;
o
Knowing the
other person submits because they are unaware the act is being committed;
o
Being a
teacher, administrator, coach or other person employed by or serving in an
institution of higher education and the other person is a minor;
o Being a mental health professional and inducing a client or patient to believe the sexual conduct is necessary for mental health treatment;
·
Sexual Imposition: A person can be charged with a
first or third degree misdemeanor for this offense if they have sexual contact
with a person who is not their spouse, cause another person to have sexual
contact with them, or cause two or more other persons to have sexual contact
when:
o
The alleged
offender knows the sexual contact is offensive or reckless;
o The alleged offender knows the other person submits because they are unaware of the sexual contact
Besides the potentially harsh legal penalties associated with these sex crimes, those convicted must also deal with a damaged reputation, loss of employment or permanent inability to find a job and requirements to register as a sex offender.
For more
information, please visit http://www.criminalattorneycolumbus.com/CriminalDefense/SexCrimes.aspx#sex_offenses.