A sex-offense allegation can have a devastating impact on your reputation, finances, and freedom. In Ohio, these charges encompass a broad range of conduct, and a conviction on almost any of them carries a lasting consequence beyond prison time or fines: mandatory registration as a sex offender. At The Robert Jones Defense Firm, we represent individuals accused of sex offenses across the entire spectrum and develop defenses that prioritize safeguarding your future.
Charges We Defend
We provide experienced, results-oriented representation for individuals facing sex-offense charges in Ohio, including rape, sexual battery, gross sexual imposition, pandering obscenity, importuning, and unlawful sexual conduct. No matter which charge you are facing, you do not have to defend yourself alone.
Rape
Rape is among the most serious criminal charges a person can face in Ohio, and state law recognizes several distinct types. Understanding the differences improves an accused person’s ability to present the strongest possible defense.
Under Ohio law, rape can occur when a person impairs another’s judgment by administering a drug or other substance “surreptitiously or by force, threat of force, or deception.” It also includes sexual conduct with a person the accused knows or has reason to know has an impaired mental state, as well as the use of force or threat of force to compel sexual conduct. Ohio’s age of consent is 16. If the activity was consensual and the individual was at least 16, the prosecution cannot successfully charge rape. If not, depending on the victim’s age, you might face life in prison if convicted of statutory rape. At a minimum, you could receive a lengthy prison sentence and lifelong sex-offender registry requirements.
Defending against a rape charge requires a thorough investigation. An attorney must assess whether the accuser’s allegations are credible, whether evidence was collected lawfully, and conduct an independent investigation into the allegations. Where evidence was gathered improperly, it may be appropriate to file motions to suppress it. Examining the alleged scene, meeting with witnesses, and reviewing social media and other digital evidence are all essential steps.
Sexual Battery and Gross Sexual Imposition
Sexual battery is sexual conduct with another person, other than a spouse, without consent. It is a third-degree felony in Ohio, punishable by one to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. If the victim is younger than 12, the charge is elevated to a second-degree felony, carrying two to eight years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
Gross sexual imposition involves non-consensual sexual contact under circumstances defined by statute and can be charged as a third- or fourth-degree felony, with maximum prison terms of five years and 18 months, respectively. Both sexual battery and gross sexual imposition require registration as a sex offender upon conviction.
Because memories fade and evidence can be lost, it is critical to act quickly. Gathering evidence, identifying witnesses, and working with an experienced attorney early allows us to explore defenses such as consent or false allegations while building continuity in your case.
Understanding Sex Offender Registration
For many people, registering as a sex offender proves more burdensome than serving time. Ohio’s tiered system requires offenders to register their address, employment, vehicle, and contact information with the state for periods ranging from 15 years to life. Registration can make finding employment, renting a home, or owning a firearm far more difficult. Reducing or avoiding this consequence is often central to the defense strategy we develop.
Protect Your Freedom: Contact The Robert Jones Defense Firm
When your reputation, finances, and freedom are at stake, there is no substitute for experienced, diligent representation. Contact The Robert Jones Defense Firm today to defend yourself and your future with effective, results-oriented advocacy.