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Child sex crime case goes before State Supreme Court

On Behalf of | Jun 1, 2017 | Felonies |

Many people who think about sex crimes in Ohio may initially think about adults that are accused of crimes against children or perhaps against other adults who may be more vulnerable than they in some manner. However, it is also possible that an allegation of rape or some other form of a sex crime may be made against a minor.

Under Ohio laws, a person under the age of 18 may in fact be officially charged with a sex crime so long as they are at least 13 years of age. A person who is 12 years old or younger is currently not allowed to be charged with this type of offense because they are said to be unable to consent to sexual activity due to their age. A case that is going before the Ohio Supreme Court is actually looking to change or at least challenge this law.

The case involves two boys, one of whom is 12 years old and one of whom is nine years old. The older boy has been charged with gross sexual imposition but that charge is being challenged because of the current law. It has been asserted that the charge violates the boy’s rights. Another viewpoint is urging that such a charge be allowed given that both boys involved are under 13 years old.

Whether an adult or a child is accused of a serious sex crime, talking with an attorney may be a good way to learn about the laws that pertain to a given situation.

Source: WOSU, “Ohio Supreme Court Deliberates On Sex Crime Sentences For Children Under 13,” Karen Kasler, May 18, 2017