Revenge porn, also referred to as “non-consensual dissemination of private sexual images,” is a serious crime in Ohio. Under Ohio Revised Code § 2917.211, it is illegal to distribute explicit images or videos of another person without their consent, particularly when the intent is to harass, intimidate, or cause emotional distress. This law was enacted to address the harmful consequences of sharing intimate images in situations such as breakups or personal disputes.
Cincinnati Revenge Porn Defense Attorney
Revenge porn charges can arise in various scenarios, such as sharing explicit images without consent or distributing private content to intimidate or harm someone. If you are facing sex crime charges, contact an experienced defense attorney immediately.
The Wieczorek Law Firm, LLC, led by Mark Wieczorek serves all of Ohio, including Hamilton County, Butler County, Clermont County, Brown County, Highland County, Clinton County, Preble County, Scioto County, Greene County, Montgomery County, and Warren County, and Southern Ohio. Call Mark Wieczorek at (513) 317-5987 for a free consultation or complete our contact form.
- Overview of Revenge Porn:
- Revenge Porn under Ohio Law
- Penalties for Revenge Porn
- Defenses for Revenge Porn
- Additional Resources
- Hire an Attorney for Revenge Porn
Revenge Porn under Ohio Law
Revenge porn in Ohio refers to the act of sharing or distributing explicit images or videos of an individual without their consent, typically with the intent to harass, intimidate, or cause emotional distress. Under Ohio law, this offense is taken seriously and is considered a violation of personal privacy. It encompasses situations where private content is obtained and shared maliciously, such as after the end of a relationship or as a form of retaliation.
Here are some examples of actions that could be considered revenge porn under Ohio law:
- Sharing Explicit Images Without Consent: A person posts intimate photos or videos of their ex-partner on social media platforms without their permission as a form of retaliation after a breakup.
- Distributing Content via Messaging Apps: Sending private, explicit images or videos of another person to mutual friends, family members, or colleagues via text, email, or messaging apps without consent.
- Uploading to Public Websites: Uploading intimate content to adult websites or forums, often including the victim’s name, contact information, or social media links to increase their exposure to harassment.
- Threatening to Share Content: Threatening to release private images or videos unless the victim agrees to demands, such as paying money or engaging in further sexual acts.
- Distribution in Professional Settings: Sending explicit content to a victim’s employer or coworkers to damage their reputation or career.
- Using Revenge Porn for Blackmail: Demanding money, favors, or compliance in exchange for not distributing intimate content.
Penalties
The penalties for revenge porn depend on the circumstances of the case, such as the relationship between the parties and prior criminal history. Here’s an overview of the penalties:
First-Degree Misdemeanor – This is the typical charge for a first offense of revenge porn.
- Up to 180 days in jail and/or
- Fines up to $1,000.
Fifth-Degree Felony – Subsequent Offenses or Aggravating Circumstances
- Up to 12 months in prison and/or
- Fines up to $2,500.
Aggravating Factors
Some circumstances that may lead to more severe penalties include:
- Repeat Offenses: Multiple acts of revenge porn, particularly against the same victim or others.
- Victim Under 18: Sharing or threatening to share explicit images of a minor can lead to additional child pornography charges, carrying far more severe penalties.
- Commercial Gain: If the offender profits from distributing the content (e.g., selling images online), it could result in harsher punishment or additional charges.
In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction for revenge porn can have other significant repercussions:
- Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction could lead to a criminal record, impacting job prospects, housing applications, and more.
- Sex Offender Registration:
- In some cases involving minors, offenders may be required to register as a sex offender.
Defenses
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that the images were shared accidentally or without malicious intent.
- Consent: Establishing that the person depicted consented to the distribution of the images or videos.
Additional Resources
- Ohio Revised Code § 2917.211: Revenge porn in Ohio refers to the act of sharing or distributing explicit images or videos of an individual without their consent, typically with the intent to harass, intimidate, or cause emotional distress. Read more about the statute here.
- Sex Crimes: Have you been arrested or charged with a sex offense? Then you need to hire a lawyer immediately. Contact The Wieczorek Law Firm today.
Hire a Revenge Porn Defense Lawyer in Hamilton County, Ohio
Facing revenge porn charges is a serious matter, but an experienced attorney can help protect your rights and work toward a favorable outcome. At the Wieczorek Law Firm, we understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to providing vigorous defense strategies tailored to your situation. Our goal is to minimize the impact on your life and guide you through every step of the legal process.
The Wieczorek Law Firm, LLC, led by Mark Wieczorek serves all of Ohio, including Hamilton County, Butler County, Clermont County, Brown County, Highland County, Clinton County, Preble County, Scioto County, Greene County, Montgomery County, and Warren County, and Southern Ohio. Call Mark Wieczorek at (513) 317-5987 for a free consultation or complete our contact form.
