What Is Considered a Violent Crime in Ohio?
The penalties for a violent criminal offense conviction tend to be much more severe than the penalties for other types of Ohio crimes. Yet, what does it mean when someone says an individual is accused of committing a violent crime in Ohio?
At the Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc., our knowledgeable criminal defense team wants to help you understand Ohio laws surrounding violent crimes and why you need an attorney fighting to protect you from day one.
What Is Considered a Violent Crime in Ohio?
“Violent crime” is a broad phrase that describes a number of criminal offenses in Ohio that can fall under a single umbrella. Technically, any crime that involves the use or attempted use of physical force against another individual can be considered a violent crime. Some of the most common examples of offenses that may fall into the category of violent crimes include:
• Murder/homicide
• Voluntary manslaughter
• Involuntary manslaughter
• Forcible rape
• Kidnapping
• Assault/aggravated assault
• Strangulation
• Menacing/stalking
• Trafficking in persons
• Arson
• Terrorism
• Improperly discharging a firearm
Robbery and burglary can also be violent crimes when an individual has a deadly weapon in their possession or under their control, they harm or threaten physical harm to another person, or when they use or threaten to use immediate physical force. Depending on the circumstances, domestic violence and battery can also be classified as violent crimes.
Violent Crime Penalties in Ohio
Penalties for violent criminal offense convictions tend to be extremely severe, especially since many violent crimes are felony offenses. This is because crimes of this nature pose the greatest threat to the public and cause the most significant harm to victims. Ohio’s basic sentencing guidelines for criminal offenses are as follows:
• Misdemeanor of the First Degree – Fines up to $1,000, 180 days in jail
• Felony of the Fifth Degree – Fines up to $2,500, six to 12 months in prison
• Felony of the Fourth Degree – Fines up to $5,000, six to 18 months in prison
• Felony of the Third Degree – Fines up to $10,000, one to five years in prison
• Felony of the Second Degree – Fines up to $15,000, two to eight years in prison
• Felony of the First Degree – Fines up to $20,000, three to 10 years in prison
The most severe violent crimes may carry stiffer penalties. For example, individuals convicted of certain murder offenses can be sentenced to the death penalty or life in prison, in addition to fines of up to $25,000.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer Right Away
If you stand accused of committing a violent crime, there is no time to waste. You need immediate legal representation to help protect your rights and build a solid and compelling defense. At the Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc., our legal team has over 100 years of collective legal experience and an outstanding record of getting results for our clients.
Before you make a statement to law enforcement, discuss your situation with an Ohio criminal defense attorney. Contact our office now for a confidential legal consultation. We are ready to fight for you.