Have you been accused of a sex crime in Cincinnati, Ohio? Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers is here to help. Call (513) 333-0014 today to schedule a free consultation with a Cincinnati sex crimes lawyer.
We understand how overwhelming an arrest can feel, and you don’t have to face it alone. Worry and uncertainty are natural after such serious charges, but they shouldn’t keep you from acting.
Instead, use that energy to fight back. With the right defense strategy, you can protect your rights, challenge the accusations, and work to minimize your criminal record while pursuing the best possible outcome.
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Why Choose Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers for Help With Sex Crime Charges
The Cincinnati criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers are dedicated to providing our clients with top-class legal services.
Our reputation is built on proven experience, respected credentials, and a dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes.
Clients turn to us because:
- We bring more than 100 years of combined legal experience in criminal law to every case.
- Our legal team includes former police officers and prosecutors who understand how the criminal justice system works from the inside.
- Members of our team have been recognized as National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers as well as Super Lawyers.
- We have a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating.
If you’re facing charges in Cincinnati, OH, contact our law firm today to schedule a time to speak with an experienced sex crime defense lawyer during a free consultation.
What Are the Most Commonly Charged Sexual Offenses in Cincinnati?
The state of Ohio has a broad range of criminal offenses on its books that can be classified as “sex crimes.” A brief list of some of the most commonly charged sex offenses in the state would include:
Rape
Section 2907.02 of the Ohio Revised Code states that it is illegal for an individual to engage in sexual conduct with another person who is not their spouse or who is their spouse but is living apart from them when any of the following conditions apply:
- The offender substantially impairs the other person’s judgment or control by deceptively, forcefully, or surreptitiously administering a drug or controlled substance.
- The other person is younger than 13 years of age.
- The other person’s ability to consent or resist is substantially impaired because of their mental condition, physical condition, or advanced age, and the offender has reasonable cause to believe that this may be the case.
Ohio’s rape statute also succinctly states that it is unlawful to compel another person to engage in sexual conduct by force or the threat of force.
Rape is almost always classified as a felony of the first degree in the state of Ohio.
Sexual Battery
Section 2907.03 of the Ohio Revised Code explains that it is unlawful for an individual to engage in sexual conduct with another person who is not their spouse if any of the following conditions apply:
- The offender knowingly coerces the other person to submit.
- The offender is aware that the other person’s ability to control their conduct is substantially impaired.
- The offender is aware that the other person is submitting because they are unaware that the act of sexual misconduct is being committed.
- The offender is aware that the other person is submitting because they believe that the offender is their spouse.
- The offender is the other person’s parent or guardian.
- The other person is a prisoner or hospital patient and the offender has disciplinary or supervisory authority over them.
- The offender is a teacher or school employee and the other person attends their school.
- The other person is a minor and the offender is their coach or instructor.
- The offender is a cleric and the other person is a minor who attends their church.
- The offender is a peace officer and the other person is a minor who is more than two years younger than them.
In the state of Ohio, sexual abuse of this nature is generally categorized as a felony of the third degree. However, it may be bumped up to a second-degree felony if the alleged victim is younger than 13 years of age.
Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor
Section 2907.04 of the Ohio Revised Code states that it is illegal for a person who is over the age of 18 to engage in sexual conduct with a person that is not their spouse, who they know to be older than 13 years old but younger than 16 years old (the age of consent in Ohio).
This offense is otherwise known as statutory rape and is typically classified as a felony of the fourth degree by the state of Ohio. However, because the state takes a dim view of crimes involving minors, it may be upgraded to a third-degree felony if the offender is more than 10 years older than the other person.
If you have been accused of committing any of the crimes outlined above or any other sex offenses, the experienced sex crimes attorneys here at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers would love to help you fight back against your charges and discount the alleged conduct. To arrange a confidential consultation with a member of our team, just give us a call or drop us a message through our online contact form.
We’ll investigate your case, negotiate with the other side, and work to secure a plea deal or other beneficial outcome.
What Are the Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction in the State of Ohio?
In Ohio, crimes such as rape and sexual assault or battery are punished quite severely. Individuals who are convicted of a sex crime in the Buckeye State are typically penalized as follows:
- First-Degree Felonies: Up to 10 years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $20,000.
- Second-Degree Felonies: Up to 8 years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $15,000.
- Third-Degree Felonies: Up to 5 years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
- Fourth-Degree Felonies: Up to 18 months in state prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
- Fifth-Degree Felonies: Up to 12 months in state prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
As well as being sent to prison and having to pay a fine, people who are proven guilty of certain sexual offenses are also required to register as sex offenders.
Sex Offender Registry
The Ohio sex offender registry is separated into three tiers, based on the severity of an offender’s crimes. The registration requirements for each of these tiers are as follows:
- Tier I: Offenders must register with a local law enforcement officer once per year for a period of 15 years.
- Tier II: Offenders must register with a local law enforcement officer every 180 days for 25 years.
- Tier III: Offenders must register with a local law enforcement officer every 90 days for the remainder of their life.
The consequences of being placed on the registry can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life, from employment to housing to personal relationships.
Collateral Consequences
During their mandatory registration period, convicted sex offenders in the state of Ohio are typically required to adhere to terms such as:
- Employment Restrictions: Sex offenders are rarely allowed to work with children or vulnerable people.
- Residency Restrictions: Ohio often bans registered sex offenders from living near a school.
- Alcohol Restrictions: Convicted sex offenders are almost never allowed to drink alcohol.
- Computer Searches: The state of Ohio can conduct a search of a registered sex offender’s computer at any time.
- Notification Requirements: Sexual offenders are often required to tell their neighbors about their registration status.
At Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers, we understand how terrifying the severe penalties of a sex offense conviction can be. That is why we fight so hard to help our clients avoid them.
If you would like to have us represent you throughout your sex crimes case, please reach out to us today to set up an initial consultation.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Top Cincinnati Sex Crimes Lawyer
Facing sex crimes allegations is one of the most serious legal challenges a person can endure. When the State of Ohio brings such charges, the consequences can affect every aspect of your future. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side to protect your rights and gather evidence is essential.
At Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers, our team provides skilled representation for clients throughout Cincinnati, Ohio. We are committed to building a strong defense and guiding you through each step of the legal process with professionalism and discretion.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated Cincinnati sex crimes lawyer and take the first step toward safeguarding your future.
