Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles

Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles

Let's say there is an individual named John Doe who is 25 years old and resides in Ohio. John comes across a website that hosts explicit sexual content and decides to download several pornographic videos from the site. These videos contain graphic nudity and explicit sexual acts. Unbeknownst to John, his younger cousin, Jane Doe, who is 13 years old, often uses his computer when she visits his house. One day, Jane uses John’s computer and stumbles upon the downloaded pornographic videos. She becomes distressed and informs her parents about the content she found.

Jane’s parents report the incident to the authorities, who launch an investigation. During the investigation, it is discovered that John knowingly downloaded and stored the explicit videos on his computer. Prosecutors determine that the material is harmful to juveniles, given Jane’s age. Based on these circumstances, John could potentially be charged with Disseminating Material Harmful to Juveniles in Ohio.

Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles Attorney in Willoughby

As with any sexual related offense, especially one involving minors, hiring an attorney is crucial when facing a disseminating accusation. Depending on the severity of the offense and any prior criminal history, this type of conviction carries serious consequences, which could include fines, imprisonment, and the requirement to register as a sex offender. An attorney from Fortress Law Group will provide the legal expertise necessary in navigating the complex laws and procedures specific to your case, all while offering valuable emotional support throughout the legal proceedings.

How Is Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles Defined in Ohio?

In Ohio, Disseminating Material Harmful to Juveniles refers to the act of distributing or transmitting materials that are considered harmful to individuals under the age of 18. The Ohio Revised Code (Section 2907.31) defines and prohibits the distribution of such materials.

According to the law, material harmful to juveniles includes any obscene material or any material that is harmful to juveniles' development, regardless of whether it is obscene. Harmful material may include explicit sexual content, violence, graphic nudity, or other materials that are inappropriate or unsuitable for individuals under the age of 18.

Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles Penalties in Ohio

In Ohio, the penalties for Disseminating Material Harmful to Juveniles can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, including the nature of the material, the intent of the person disseminating it, and the age of the individuals involved. The severity of the offense can range from a misdemeanor to a felony. Here is a general overview of potential penalties:

• Misdemeanor Offense: Disseminating material harmful to juveniles can be charged as a first-degree misdemeanor in Ohio. If convicted, potential penalties may include up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
• Felony Offense: Disseminating material obscene to juveniles can be charged as a fifth-degree felony offense. Penalties may include a prison term of up to 12 months and/or a fine of up to $2,500. If the obscene material was disseminated to a minor under 13 years old, the charge escalates to a fourth-degree felony, with penalties including a prison term of up to 18 months and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

It's important to note that these penalties are general guidelines and can be subject to change. The specific penalties imposed in a particular case will depend on various factors, including the judge's discretion, the defendant's criminal history, and any aggravating or mitigating circumstances involved.