FREE CONSULTATIONS (513) 399-6289
Sex Offenses

We have a proven track record of success in handling over 20,000 criminal cases and consistently awarded as one of Ohio’s Best Criminal Defense Firms. We treat our clients like family with a non-judgmental approach. Knowledge is power in any situation. We are here to help educate you about your circumstances. Use our resources below to contact us and learn how we can help you.

Begin Your Defense Today: (513) 399-6289 Begin Your Defense Today:
(513) 399-6289
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
RUE Ratings - Best Attorneys of America
“Brian Joslyn is an Award-Winning Criminal and DUI Defense attorney who, along with his team at The Joslyn Law Firm, have handled hundreds of criminal cases and helping their clients obtain the best results possible.”

Sex Crimes in Cincinnati

Defending Against Serious Sex-Related Criminal Charges in Cincinnati

Joslyn Law Firm is a successful, award-winning criminal defense law firm that has handled hundreds of criminal cases. We are dedicated to fighting for the best possible outcome for our clients. With years of awards recognizing head attorney Brian Joslyn as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, a Rising Star Selectee in Ohio, and a Nationally Ranked Top 10 Under 40 Attorney Award, know that you are in good hands with Brian and the rest of our firm. We have years of experience defending against criminal charges, and we are ready to defend those accused of sex crimes.

Sex charges, no matter the allegation, are serious and can result in tough penalties. Joslyn Law Firm wants to defend those who have been accused as we believe people are innocent until proven guilty. Individuals charged with a sex crime deserve a chance to fight their charge, and strong legal representation can help.

Joslyn Law Firm will leave no stone unturned for you. If you were accused of a sex crime in Cincinnati, a Cincinnati sex offenses lawyer can offer legal advice during this difficult time.

Defending Against Serious Sex-Related Criminal Charges in Cincinnati

Joslyn Law Firm defends its clients against a wide range of criminal charges, including sex-related charges. Whether the allegations involve a relatively minor sexual offense or violent rape, the penalties can be harsh, as Ohio law and authorities take all sex offenses extremely seriously.

Sex crimes are some of the most troubling allegations in the criminal justice system. Long before you are ever found guilty of a sex crime, even an arrest and accusation can have a serious stigma attached and cause significant damage to your reputation.

Having information about your arrest in the news or on your criminal record can affect nearly every aspect of your life for years to come, and a conviction for a sex offense can have additional lasting consequences.

We provide criminal defenses for clients in a wide variety of practice areas throughout the Cincinnati metropolitan area and Hamilton County. Our sex crime lawyers are committed to defending the rights of accused parties.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reported the following statistics regarding reported rape in the U.S. in recent years:

2013 = 113,695

2014 = 118,027

2015 = 126,134

2016 = 132,414

2017 = 135,755

As this data illustrates, not only are more people the victims of alleged sexual assault, but more people are facing sex-related criminal allegations.

As soon as you are suspected of a sex crime, you can bet that authorities will be trying to get statements that a prosecutor can use against you to obtain a conviction and a harsh sentence. The legal team at Joslyn Law Firm provides representation without judgment. We believe that every defendant deserves representation and that individuals are innocent until proven guilty.

This is why it helps to seek criminal defense representation before you talk to authorities. If the police arrested you or you believe that you may be under investigation for a Cincinnati sex crime, you should exercise your right to remain silent and immediately connect with a sex crime defense lawyer who can protect your rights and interests.

We know the criminal justice system is not favored toward defendants, which is why we are here to stand up for the rights of our clients facing criminal allegations. We value the attorney-client relationship we build with our clients, and we are determined to bring a fair resolution to your case.

Failing to build a strong defense can result in a wrongful conviction and overly harsh consequences. Call (513) 399-6289 today for a free case evaluation with a member of our team.

Ohio Sex Crimes Information Center

  1. Overview of Cincinnati, Ohio Sex Crimes
  2. What Constitutes a Cincinnati Sex Crime?
  3. Common Sex-Related Charges in Cincinnati, Ohio
  4. Child Pornography Charges in Cincinnati, Ohio
  5. Sex Crime Cases Involving Children in Cincinnati
  6. Investigations of Sex Crimes in Cincinnati
  7. Sex Crime Allegations and Filed Charges in Cincinnati, Ohio
  8. Special Investigators and Prosecutors for Sex Crimes in Hamilton County & Cincinnati
  9. Evidence Common in Sex-related Cases in Cincinnati, Ohio
  10. The Ohio Criminal Court Process for Sex Crimes in Cincinnati
  11. Possible Defenses against Sex Crimes in Cincinnati
  12. Possible Penalties for Cincinnati, Ohio Sex Crime Convictions
  13. Sex Offender Registration Requirements in Cincinnati, Ohio
  14. Collateral Consequences of a Cincinnati, Ohio Sex Crime Conviction
  15. Resources Regarding Sex Crimes in Cincinnati
  16. Sexually Oriented Protection Orders and Victims’ Rights in Sex Offense Cases in Cincinnati
  17. Related Sex Crime News and Articles in Cincinnati
  18. Questions and Answers About Cincinnati Sex Offenses
  19. Cincinnati Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

Back to top

Overview of Cincinnati, Ohio Sex Crimes

Ohio law lists offenses considered to be “sex offenses” under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2907. All of these offenses involve some type of sexually offensive conduct or wrongful sexual contact. Sex crimes are often associated with a stranger forcibly raping someone. However, there are many other situations in which sex crimes can occur or be alleged. Often, Cincinnati sex crime allegations are against someone who the alleged victim knew well, such as a family member, friend, or co-worker.

No matter what your relationship to the alleged victim may be, the law sets out severe penalties for convicted sex offenders. Many sex crime convictions come with extended periods of incarceration in state prison and hefty fines. There are also additional requirements for many sex offenders, such as sex offender registration for years or even for the rest of their lives. There are three different tiers of registered sex offenders in Cincinnati, as follows:

  • Tier I – Offenders have to register each year for 15 years.
  • Tier II – Offenders have to register twice a year for 25 years.
  • Tier III – Offenders have to register four times a year for the rest of their lives.

No matter what tier of registration is involved, this requirement can completely change a person’s professional and personal life. Even after you serve your sentence, the public will be able to see your personal information and prior convictions online with a simple search. Because the laws regarding sex crimes are so strict, it is critical to have a defense lawyer who fully understands how to fight these charges and consequences.


Back to top

What Constitutes a Cincinnati Sex Crime?

Sex crimes involve unlawful sexual activity, which can mean sexual contact with another person, sexually offensive conduct, or both. Under Ohio Revised Code § 2907.01(B), sexual contact can include “any touching of an erogenous zone of another, including without limitation the thigh, genitals, buttock, pubic region, or, if the person is a female, a breast, for the purpose of sexually arousing or gratifying either person.” Such touching can be brief, over clothing, and can still constitute a sex crime if it was unwanted and improper.

Under Ohio law § 2907.01(A), any of the following may constitute criminal sexual conduct:

  • “Vaginal intercourse between a male and female
  • Anal intercourse, fellatio, and cunnilingus between persons regardless of sex
  • Without privilege to do so, the insertion, however slight, of any part of the body or any instrument, apparatus, or other objects into the vaginal or anal opening of another.”

It is important that the law states that “penetration, however slight, is sufficient to complete vaginal or anal intercourse.” This means that a slight act that a person may not consider to be intercourse can be considered intercourse for the purposes of criminal prosecution.

Sex crime allegations can involve a wide range of behavior, though they are all serious accusations that require an aggressive defense.


Back to top

Common Sex-Related Charges in Cincinnati, Ohio

As mentioned, there are many different charges that allege sex-related offenses. The following are some of the most common charges in Cincinnati, OH criminal court.

  • Rape – Rape is widely considered to be the most serious sex offense, as it involves sexual conduct without consent under the most serious of circumstances. Rape occurs when someone uses force or the threat of force to compel sexual conduct, or when they forcibly or deceptively administer drugs or intoxicants to impair the victim’s control and judgment so they can prevent resistance to sexual conduct. Rape can also be charged when a victim is younger than age 13 or when they have a mental or physical condition that causes substantial impairment and prevents them from resisting sexual conduct. Rape is a first-degree felony in Ohio.
  • Sexual battery – The crime of sexual battery occurs when someone engages in sexual conduct without consent under several different circumstances. Some situations that may lead to sexual battery charges include the offender coerced the victim into the conduct, the offender knew the victim’s judgment or control were substantially impaired, the offender knew the victim was unaware of the conduct, the offender knew the victim mistakenly thought they were engaging in sexual conduct with their spouse, the offender is a parent, guardian, or person of authority in the victim’s life, and other similar situations. This offense is a third-degree felony or a second-degree felony, depending on the specifics of the allegations.
  • Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor – This offense occurs when the offender is at least 18 years old and the other person engaged in sexual conduct is younger than 16 years old (but at least 13). This can be charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, fourth-degree felony, or third-degree felony depending on the age of the offender.
  • Sexual Imposition – The offense of sexual imposition involves sexual contact when an offender knows the contact would be offensive or knows the alleged victim is substantially impaired or unaware of the contact. Sexual imposition can also happen when the offender is a mental health professional and convinces the alleged victim that the contact is necessary for treatment, or when the offender and alleged victim are ages that are the same as unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. This offense is a third-degree misdemeanor for a first-time offender.
  • Gross Sexual Imposition – The above escalates to gross sexual imposition when an offender uses force or the threat of force, impairs a victim by administering drugs or intoxicants, or knows a victim is younger than age 13 or that they have a mental or physical condition that causes substantial impairment and prevents them from resisting sexual conduct. Gross sexual imposition also includes touching a victim’s genitals through clothing when the victim is younger than 12, and the touching occurred with the intent to abuse, harass, arouse, or gratify the sexual desire of anyone.
  • Prostitution – There are several criminal laws in Ohio that involve prostitution. Some offenses include compelling prostitution, promoting prostitution, procuring prostitution, and solicitation for prostitution.

There are a number of other sex offenses on the books, including public indecency, voyeurism, and more. Below we will take a closer look at certain sex offenses involving minors in Cincinnati, OH. You can also call Joslyn Law Firm to learn more in a free consultation.


Back to top

Child Pornography Charges in Cincinnati, Ohio

Both federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2251) and Ohio state law strictly prohibit the possession, production, or distribution of child pornography. Criminal charges and potential penalties will vary depending on the alleged conduct, and charges may include fourth-degree felonies, third-degree felonies, or second-degree felonies, depending on the specific allegations.

Because of the involvement of children and the sexual nature of child pornography offenses, prosecutors often seek the maximum possible sentence for convicted offenders. In many cases, the federal government will bring charges in federal criminal court, which can result in harsh prison sentences. Anyone accused of any type of child pornography offense should seek assistance from a Cincinnati child pornography lawyer.


Back to top

Sex Crime Cases Involving Children in Cincinnati

When a sex offense involves an alleged victim who is a minor, authorities will take the matter particularly seriously. Many offenses regularly involve child victims, including:

  • Sexual battery
  • Rape
  • Sexual imposition and gross sexual imposition
  • Compelling prostitution
  • Public indecency
  • Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor
  • Disseminating harmful matter to juveniles

In many cases, the law sets out enhanced penalties for sex crimes if the alleged victim was a child, especially under the age of 13. These cases can be very complicated, as juries are often sympathetic to children, yet children can also be unreliable witnesses. You want to ensure your case is in the hands of a Cincinnati unlawful sexual conduct with a minor attorney in this situation who knows how to mount an effective defense against such charges.


Back to top

Investigations of Sex Crimes in Cincinnati

When someone reports that they were the victim of a sex crime, law enforcement authorities will begin collecting any and all information and evidence available so they can make an arrest, and the prosecutor can file criminal charges. The investigation launched can include the following and more:

  • Collecting physical evidence from the alleged crime scene
  • Collecting evidence from a victim via a sexual assault forensic exam, also called a “rape kit”
  • Interviews with the alleged victim and any witnesses
  • Seeking statements from the accused offender

Law enforcement officers may obtain an arrest warrant based on evidence they already have or may call a suspect in for questioning without an arrest. In either situation, officers will want to interview the suspect to obtain a confession or any statements that can be used against them in a criminal case.

If you are in this position, remember you can exercise your right to remain silent and call an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you, so it is always best not to say anything until you have one of our criminal defense attorneys present to protect your rights. Even if you know you did nothing wrong, resist the urge to answer questions and call Joslyn Law Firm team instead. A sex crime attorney can defend your rights, give legal advice, and explain your options.

There are specific tools that authorities use to investigate sex crime allegations, including the following:

Rape kits – Medical professionals use a package of materials to examine rape victims, which is commonly called a “rape kit.” This kit helps to collect forensic evidence from patients that claim they were victims of sex crimes. A rape kit can take several hours and can be an invasive and difficult process for victims. Some victims finish the rape kit, and some do not. While rape kit contents can vary, they often include:

  • Instructions for the doctor
  • Tools, bags, and slides for evidence collection
  • Swabs for collecting biological material
  • Sterile saline
  • Containers for urine collection
  • Combs for collecting fibers and hair
  • Scraping picks for fingernails
  • Envelopes and labels for storing and delivering evidence

A doctor’s first priority will be treating any injuries the alleged victim sustained. Then, the victim can participate in some or all of the rape kit exam and collection process. It is up to the victim whether they want to undergo a rape kit exam at no cost to them, as well as whether they want to file a police report regarding the sexual assault. Prosecutors often rely heavily on rape kit evidence to pursue charges and convictions. However, rape kits can be compromised if a victim changed clothes, showered, or took other actions before undergoing the examination. The alleged victims has certain rights when submitting to sexual assault testing.

Interrogations and polygraphs – While physical evidence is highly persuasive in sex crime cases, so can be information provided by the defendant. You can bet that law enforcement officers will try to interrogate a suspect to get a confession or incriminating information. It is important for all suspects or arrestees to remember that they have the right to remain silent, as well as the right to call for a criminal defense lawyer to be present for all police questioning. Even if you know you did nothing wrong, it is all too common for people to say the wrong thing out of nervousness or seem like they are lying even if they are not. Anything you say to the police can – and likely will – be used against you, so it’s almost always better to remain silent until you have legal representation.

Officers may also want suspects to submit to a polygraph test. Also known as a “lie detector test,” a polygraph is intended to measure your physiological reactions to see if you are lying, including your breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate. While police still conduct these tests, the results are rarely admissible at trial since the evidence can often be unreliable, as summarize here in a study by the National Academy of Sciences. In the event that polygraph results are admitted at trial, your defense attorney should ensure that the jury receives specific instructions regarding the unreliability of these tests.

Witness interviews – Police officers and investigators will also want to interview anyone who potentially witnessed the events leading up to or after a sexual assault, who may have knowledge of the incident, or who may be willing to share other helpful information to determine whether a crime occurred. Witnesses may be brought to the stand at trial, as well, for either the prosecution or the defense. What they say in their initial interviews will be highly important for any later testimony they give, as you want to ensure it is consistent.

Resources – There are many other methods for investigating alleged sex crimes and gathering evidence to seek a conviction. The following are some resources in and around Cincinnati regarding these investigations:

Cincinnati attorneys for sex crimes investigations in Ohio can also help.


Back to top

Sex Crime Allegations and Filed Charges in Cincinnati, Ohio

Once the prosecutor believes there is enough evidence gathered to support criminal charges, they will file charges for one or more offenses with the court. If the suspect has not already been arrested, police will likely execute an arrest warrant to bring in the suspect as soon as possible.

After an arrest, bail will be set, and the suspect will have a scheduled hearing before the court for a formal arraignment and to enter a plea. While prosecutors may tell you that pleading guilty is your best option, no one should ever plead guilty to any criminal offense before they receive advice from a criminal defense attorney.

If the sex crime charged is a felony offense, the prosecutor will need to prove there is sufficient evidence to constitute probable cause to charge you with a felony. Often, there will be a preliminary hearing at which the prosecutor works to convince the judge that the case should be “bound over” to felony court, which is the Court of Common Pleas.

On the other hand, the defense lawyer will work to show there is not enough evidence for a probable cause finding. The judge will then decide whether the case will be bound over or not. In some cases, a defendant may choose to waive their right to a preliminary hearing. This should be carefully discussed with your defense lawyer first, as a preliminary hearing can often be extremely helpful for trial preparation.

Once a case is bound over to the Court of Common Pleas, it will be submitted to a Grand Jury to issue an indictment. In the alternative, a prosecutor may also decide to submit the case to the Grand Jury from the very start, skipping the need for a preliminary hearing altogether.

Once a prosecutor files sex crime charges, those charges will go on your permanent record. Even if you are not convicted, those charges will be available to the public and on background checks by employers or other parties. If your case is dropped or you are found not guilty, you will need to request that the court expunge or seal the record of your filed sex crime charges. For this reason, even having charges filed can disrupt your life and require prompt action on your part to seek help from a defense attorney.


Back to top

Special Investigators and Prosecutors for Sex Crimes in Hamilton County & Cincinnati

Sex crime investigations and prosecutions can vary from other types of criminal cases, often due to the deeply personal and sensitive nature of sexual misconduct. Law enforcement agencies often have specialized divisions that handle sex-related investigations, as do many prosecutor’s offices. These units are specially trained in collecting evidence of sex crimes and tending to the needs of alleged victims while they work to obtain convictions.

Special investigators and other support for local prosecutors often comes from the Ohio Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). The unit provides help at the crime scene, gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses and suspects, conducting polygraph tests, and more. The BCI unit’s Special Prosecutions Section can also act as lead prosecutors in sensitive cases that require specialized knowledge or that may involve a conflict of interest in the Hamilton Prosecutor’s Office.

The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office also has its own special prosecutors who will handle sex crime cases or cases involving children. When a special investigator or prosecutor is involved in a sex crime case, a defense lawyer may need to take a different approach than they would with a prosecutor they see in court on a regular basis.


Back to top

Evidence Common in Sex-Related Cases in Cincinnati, Ohio

As with any type of criminal case, a prosecutor must prove each element of a sex offense beyond a reasonable doubt to obtain a conviction. While this is the highest legal standard of any type of case in the U.S., prosecutors can and do obtain convictions, both at trial and due to guilty pleas.

To meet this burden of proof, prosecutors will present various forms of evidence, including physical evidence, witness testimony, an alleged victim’s testimony, and more. One popular form of evidence is any kind of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) that was taken from the victim or the crime scene that matches the accused defendant. This type of evidence can be particularly persuasive with juries, and a defense lawyer should know how to challenge DNA evidence and any other type of evidence presented.

One of the main ways to challenge sex crime charges is to challenge the sufficiency of the prosecutor’s evidence. Your attorney should also know when to object to any evidence that violates the Ohio Rules of Evidence.


Back to top

The Ohio Criminal Court Process for Sex Crimes in Cincinnati

The criminal justice process can be confusing for defendants, as authorities do not make the process transparent. Many defendants wonder what will happen next in their case and what their rights may be at that stage of their case. It is critical for all criminal defendants to have the representation and counsel of a defense lawyer who knows how to navigate the litigation process. The following are some major steps in a Cincinnati sex crime case:

  • Arraignment – This is the first court appearance of a defendant, and the judge will inform them of the charges issued against them. The judge also requests that the defendant enter their initial plea, which can be not guilty, guilty, or no contest. In cases in which bail is an issue, the judge may review bail set in the specific circumstances.
  • Pre-trial hearings – During the next stage of the process, the defense attorney can obtain the evidence the prosecutor has in order to formulate a defense strategy. The prosecutor and defense lawyer may also meet to negotiate a possible plea deal or so the defense lawyer can argue for the dismissal of charges. Both sides can also file motions with the court, often to have evidence admitted or suppressed from the case.
  • Trial – If the prosecutor does not offer a fair plea deal or the defendant otherwise does not want to plead guilty, the case will proceed to a jury trial. Each side will present its evidence and arguments, and the jury members will determine whether to find the defendant guilty or not guilty of the sex crime charges. If a guilty determination is reached, the judge will sentence the defendant.
  • Appeals – After a conviction, a defendant may be able to appeal the conviction or the sentence that followed. There are complex legal issues and standards involved in criminal appeals, so it helps to have a defense attorney handling your appeal. The First District Court of Appeals handles Hamilton County cases.

Back to top

Possible Defenses Against Sex Crimes in Cincinnati

Just because you face criminal charges does not mean that a conviction is inevitable. Your defense attorneys will closely examine the circumstances of your case, conduct an investigation to gather evidence, and build a defense against your charges. Defendants can raise a number of legal defenses depending on the specific details of their allegations. Some common defenses that may be available to defendants in sex crime cases include:

  • False accusations – False accusations can be particularly common in sex crime cases, as alleged victims may want revenge or may regret certain sexual encounters.
  • Mistaken identity – In sex crimes involving strangers, it is all too common for an alleged victim to wrongfully identify the defendant as the offender. A defense lawyer can question the reliability of identification procedures.
  • Consent – An alleged victim may claim they did not consent to sexual conduct while the defendant maintains the victim consented. Consent is a major issue in many sex crime cases.
  • Insufficient evidence – If a prosecutor does not have enough evidence to prove charges beyond a reasonable doubt, a defendant should be found not guilty. Defense lawyers can challenge evidence as unreliable or inadmissible to reduce the evidence a prosecutor has against you.
  • Alibi – In some situations, a prosecutor may allege a defendant committed a sex crime when the defendant was not even present at the location of the reported crime at the time. A defense attorney can gather and present evidence to support an alibi, including witness testimony, credit card receipts, and more.
  • Recanting statements – A victim’s initial statements to police and prosecutors play a critical role in a sex crime case. However, sometimes, a victim will recant their statements and change their story. When this happens, a prosecutor may have to drop the case if the victim’s testimony is their primary evidence.

There may also be some affirmative defenses that may justify certain conduct under specific circumstances. A defense lawyer can evaluate your case and explain relevant defenses for your situation. A sex crimes lawyer can get started on your defense strategy today.


Back to top

Possible Penalties for Cincinnati, Ohio Sex Crime Convictions

Just as each sex crime has its own elements a prosecutor must prove, the law also sets out specific charges and possible penalties for each offense. Penalties can vary depending on the severity of the alleged offense, as well as there were any aggravating factors alleged, such as the use of force or the young age of a victim. Prior convictions may also enhance the penalties of a conviction.

Cincinnati sex crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances.

The following are the possible charges and maximum penalties for each degree of criminal charge under Ohio law:

  • Minor misdemeanor = $150 fine, no jail time
  • Fourth-degree misdemeanor = $250 fine, 30 days in jail
  • Third-degree misdemeanor = $500 fine, 60 days in jail
  • Second-degree misdemeanor = $750 fine, 90 days in jail
  • First-degree misdemeanor = $1000 fine, 180 days in jail
  • Fifth-degree felony = $2,500 fine, 12 months in prison
  • Fourth-degree felony = $5,000 fine, 18 months in prison
  • Third-degree felony = $10,000 fine, 36 to 60 months in prison
  • Second-degree felony = $15,000 fine, 8 years in prison
  • First-degree felony = $20,000 fine, 11 years in prison, 10 years to life in prison, or 25 years to life in prison depending on the conviction

Back to top

Sex Offender Registration Requirements in Cincinnati, Ohio

After a conviction for certain sex offenses, the law may require an individual to register as a sex offender. You must report certain information to the county sheriff’s office, which then publishes the information on a publicly accessible website. This means that a person’s family, friends, neighbors, potential employers, and anyone else can learn about their sex offense convictions and other personal and identifying information.

The state of Ohio classifies sex offenders into three tiers based on their specific convictions. Each tier has its own requirements for registration, as follows:

  • Tier I – Requirements to register once a year for 15 years.
  • Tier II – Requirements to register two times a year for 25 years.
  • Tier III – Requirements to register four times a year for the rest of their lives.

Being on a sex offender registry can have a negative impact on a person’s life for years after they complete any prison or probation sentence.

Anyone can find information about convicted sex offenders by visiting the Ohio Sex Offender Registry site maintained by the Ohio Attorney General. The Hamilton County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office also has a dedicated Sex Offender Unit which works to identify when sex offenders live too close to schools or in other prohibited locations.

Learn more from a sex offender registration attorney in Cincinnati, Ohio.


Back to top

Collateral Consequences of a Cincinnati, Ohio Sex Crime Conviction

Many defendants in the state of Ohio rightfully worry about prison sentences and other court-imposed penalties. However, there are many other consequences of a sex crime conviction that can affect an offender’s life for years to come, commonly called collateral consequences. Some collateral consequences include:

  • Sex offender registry
  • Difficulty finding new employment
  • Expulsion from educational programs
  • Loss of professional licenses
  • Loss of security clearances
  • Difficulty getting approved to rent housing
  • Loss of public housing benefits
  • Ineligibility to own firearms
  • Disqualification from jury service or holding public office

In many situations, the collateral consequences of a sex offense conviction can have a more significant impact on an offender than court-imposed penalties. This is yet another reason why it is critical for an accused person to avoid a conviction whenever possible.


Back to top

Resources Regarding Sex Crimes in Cincinnati

There are many resources you can use to learn more about sex crimes, possible penalties, and the criminal justice process in the state of Ohio. The following are only some of these resources:

Chapter 2907: Sex Offenses | Ohio Revised Code

By visiting this link, you can read the many statutes in Ohio that relate to sex crimes. The legislators of the Ohio General Assembly enact and amend criminal laws intended to be enforced by government authorities. Each individual offense is listed on the right side of the website, and you can click and read the specific elements and charges for each type of sex crime.

Cincinnati Police Department
150 East Freedom Way

Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

Phone: 513-352-5420

The Cincinnati Police Department is comprised of about 1000 officers and 125 civilian support employees. There are three major divisions serving 52 neighborhoods, including Patrol, Support, and Investigations. The stated core values of the Cincinnati Police Department include integrity, professionalism, diversity, accountability, and vigilance. You can learn more about the Department and its functions from its website.

Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office

1000 Sycamore St. Room 110

Cincinnati, OH 45202

Phone: (513) 946-6400

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office performs law enforcement and several other public services throughout the county. The Office has pledged to work with other public agencies in the area to rebuild community relationships and protect the public. Divisions of the Sheriff’s Office include Enforcement, Administration, Court Services, and Jail Services. This Office also maintains and publishes the Hamilton County Sex Offender Registry, which you can use to search for convicted Cincinnati sex crime offenders.

Ohio Attorney General

30 E. Broad St., 14th Floor

Columbus, OH 43215

Phone: (614) 466-4986

In 2011, Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine initiated the Crimes Against Children Initiative. This program focuses on identifying, arresting, and prosecuting individuals suspected of victimizing children through sexual abuse, solicitation of minors, child pornography, and other offenses. The office trains law enforcement officers, investigators, victim advocates, and prosecutors to target sex offenders who choose children as alleged victims.

ACLU Sexting Education Initiative

The term “sexting” can refer to messages via email, online messaging, or cell phones that involve sending or receiving nude images of others. When sexting involves nude images of minors, it becomes a criminal offense. The ACLU is trying to fight for consistent prosecution when it comes to sexting. This website gives more information about sexting and its possible consequences.

The University of Cincinnati Victim Services

The UC Police Division’s Special Investigations Unit has a special coordinator to assist victims of crimes on campus, especially sex-related crimes. The office can help victims understand their legal options, help with police reporting, seek orders of protection, and provide assistance throughout the criminal process.

Survivor Services of Women Helping Women

The non-profit Women Helping Women provides a 24-hour hotline and ongoing assistance for victims of sex crimes. The organization works with the Cincinnati Police Department and prosecutors for victims’ advocacy, protective orders, and crime victim compensation. They will also accompany victims to the hospital and help throughout the legal process.


Back to top

Sexually Oriented Protection Orders and Victims’ Rights in Sex Offense Cases in Cincinnati

After someone is arrested for a sex crime, the alleged victim has rights under Ohio law even if the prosecutor never issues any charges. Specifically, an alleged victim can petition the court to grant a Sexually Oriented Offense Protection Order (SOOPO). The process of obtaining a SOOPO is similar to that required for a protection order after domestic violence or stalking, although it is not exactly the same. The Supreme Court of Ohio & the Ohio Judicial System have a collection of relevant SOOPO forms and instructions.

Form 10.03-E: Civil Stalking Protection Order or Civil Sexually Oriented Offense Protection Order Ex Parte is a form that outlines the restrictions of the protection order without all involved parties present.

The Common Pleas Court hears SOOPO cases instead of a domestic relations division. While the court may not rule on child custody or related matters, it can order many different restrictions against the alleged sex crime offender, even without a conviction for the offense or even a criminal charge. If granted, a SOOPO can stay in effect for up to five years with the possibility of renewal.


Back to top

Related Sex Crime News and Articles in Cincinnati

  • Carthage Man Indicted on 16 Felony Sex Crimes Against Child Victims– A 49-year-old Carthage man faces 12 counts of rape and four counts of gross sexual imposition involving four different minor victims. The offenses allegedly took place from 2010 to 2017, and the victims were all younger than age 13 when the offenses occurred. After a joint investigation with the Cincinnati Police Department and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department, a Grand Jury issued the indictment for 16 felony counts.
  • Registered Sex Offender Forged Court Documents for Subsidized Housing, Feds say– The U.S. Department of Housing (HUD) prohibits sex offenders from receiving housing subsidies and similar public aid. However, HUD realized that a Cincinnati man reported his residence to the sex offender registry and that the residence was for a subsidized housing development. The man obtained vouchers by forging judges’ signatures and other documents and now faces forgery charges.
  • Butler County Judge May Have Been Biased in Rape Case Due to Sex Assault of his Relative– Nearly two years after sentencing a convicted rape offender to 33 years in prison, a judge in Butler County announced he recused himself from the case. The judge admitted that a similar crime against a family member may have biased him against the defendant during the sentencing process. The prosecutor agreed that another judge should resentence the offender in that case and notified other sex offenders previously sentenced by the original judge.
  • Probation and Fine for Cincinnati Cop Caught Paying for Sex– A police officer pleaded no contest to criminal charges stemming from admissions that he paid for sex. The court sentenced the officer to one year of probation in lieu of a suspended 60-day jail sentence, along with a $310 fine. The officer will serve a short suspension from the police force, though any additional disciplinary action is yet to be determined.
  • Prior Sex Offender Now Wanted in Connection to Rape of Minor– Cincinnati police are looking for a 60-year-old man wanted for four counts of rape and two counts of gross sexual imposition involving a juvenile victim. The man previously served five years in prison for sexual battery and registered as a sex offender from 2006 to 2016, when the requirement ended.

Back to top

Questions and Answers About Cincinnati Sex Offenses

Q: How do you challenge evidence in a sex crime case?

A: One way to challenge evidence found against the defendant is for the defendant’s attorney to claim that the prosecutor’s evidence is insufficient. The defendant’s attorney can object to any of the prosecutor’s evidence that violates the Ohio Rules of Evidence.

Q: What are the possible defenses in a sex crime case?

A: There are a number of possible defenses in sex crime cases. Defenses include false accusations, a mistaken identity, recanting of statements, and insufficient evidence. Depending on your case, you may be able to use one or more of these defenses.

Q: What are the penalties for a sex crime conviction?

A: The penalties you may receive depend on the sex crime you are charged with. Penalties for sex crimes range from a minor misdemeanor with no jail time to a first-degree felony with 25 years to life in prison.

Q: What is the Ohio court process for sex crimes?

A: The criminal court process in Ohio involves the arraignment, which is the first time one appears in court, the pre-trial hearings, where the defendant’s attorney obtains evidence from the prosecutor, the trial if the defendant does not plead guilty, and the appeals if the defendant wants to appeal their conviction.


Back to top

Cincinnati Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

Do you have reason to think that police are investigating you for a sex crime? Did officers arrest you on suspicion of a sex crime? Do police want to interview you about a possible sex crime? Has a prosecutor issued sex offense charges against you in the Cincinnati area? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” you can consult with a criminal defense attorney at Joslyn Law Firm.

It is a reality that defendants who have qualified defense representation regularly receive more positive outcomes in their cases. Brian Joslyn represents defendants in the Cincinnati area accused of a wide variety of criminal charges.

Prospective clients can call (513) 399-6289. Our law firm will review your situation and explain how a Cincinnati sex crimes lawyer can help you.


Back to top

  • Brian Joslyn was named Best Lawyer in 2019 by Birdeye.
  • Columbus CEO magazine has yearly selections for the best attorneys in Columbus Ohio. Brian Joslyn has been identified as one of the most highly skilled attorneys across central Ohio.
  • Brian Joslyn has earned recognition for community leadership by Lawyer LegionLawyer Legion
  • Preeminent Attorney Award. Peer rated for highest level of professional excellence.
  • The Better Business Bureau (BBB), founded in 1912, is a private, nonprofit organization whose self-described mission is to focus on advancing marketplace trust.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Our Team is Ready to Begin Your Defense Today
Joslyn Law Firm Group Photo Joslyn Law Firm Group Photo


    All fields required. Use this form to request a free and confidential evaluation of your case and consultation with one of our attorneys. Please do not send sensitive information via this form. The use of this form does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. For your convenience, consultations are available via phone, in person or over video conference. Our office will get back to you as soon as possible.