What is Voyeurism in Ohio?

What is Voyeurism According to Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.08?

Voyeurism in Ohio is defined by Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.08. Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.08, there are several situations wherein a person can violate the Voyeurism statute. Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.08 states:

(A) No person, for the purpose of sexually arousing or gratifying the person's self, shall commit trespass or otherwise surreptitiously invade the privacy of another, to spy or eavesdrop upon another.

(B) No person shall knowingly commit trespass or otherwise secretly or surreptitiously videotape, film, photograph, broadcast, stream, or otherwise record another person, in a place where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, for the purpose of viewing the private areas of that person.

(C) No person shall knowingly commit trespass or otherwise secretly or surreptitiously videotape, film, photograph, broadcast, stream, or otherwise record a minor, in a place where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, for the purpose of viewing the private areas of the minor.

(D) No person shall secretly or surreptitiously videotape, film, photograph, or otherwise record another person above, under, or through the clothing being worn by that other person for the purpose of viewing the body of, or the undergarments worn by, that other person. 

What Are The Penalties For Voyeurism in Ohio?

The penalties for Voyeurism in Ohio vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the offense.

• A violation of subsection (A) of the Voyeurism statute is a misdemeanor of the third degree, which is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 60 days and/or a fine up to $500.
• A violation of subsection (B) of the Voyeurism statute is misdemeanor of the second degree, which is punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to 90 days and/or a fine of up to $750.
• A violation of subsection (D) of the Voyeurism statute is a misdemeanor of the first degree, which is punishable by a term of imprisonment up to 180 days and/or a fine up to $1,000.
• A violation of subsection (C) of the Voyeurism statute is a felony of the fifth degree, which is punishable by a term of imprisonment up to 12 months and/or a fine up to $2,500.
• In addition, an offender who is convicted of Voyeurism in Ohio will be classified as a Tier I sex-offender, which requires registration every 12 months for a period of 15 years.

What To Do If You Are Accused of Voyeurism in Ohio

Being accused of Voyeurism in Ohio carries significant consequences and can have an extreme effect on one’s life, regardless of whether they are convicted or not. If you, or someone you know has been accused of Voyeurism in Ohio, it is recommended that you contact a criminal defense attorney who has specific knowledge and experience handling Voyeurism cases in Ohio. It is important to speak to an experienced Ohio criminal defense attorney before speaking to anyone about the allegations, as anything you say can and will likely be used against you, even if the statement is not made to law enforcement.

An experienced Ohio criminal defense attorney will be able to discuss your case and the allegations against you, help you gather evidence that may be beneficial for your defense, give advice on how to speak and act around loved ones who know about the accusations, and make sure that you are treated properly throughout any investigation or proceeding. If you are contacted by law enforcement, it is never recommended to make a statement. Instead, be polite but respectfully decline answering any questions. Immediately, contact an experienced Ohio criminal defense attorney. 

At Friedman Nemecek Long & Grant, L.L.C., our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys have travelled all across the State of Ohio representing individuals facing criminal investigations or charges related to Voyeurism allegations. Our lawyers stay abreast of the constant changes in legislation and/or court cases to ensure that our clients receive the most comprehensive and effective representation available. If you have questions regarding such matters, or you have been subjected to, or accused of, Voyeurism or other sexual misconduct, please call the law firm of Friedman Nemecek, & Long, L.L.C., at (888) 694-4645 for an initial consultation.