2 female sex offenders challenge new state law

The changes will bring Ohio into compliance with federal law.

COLUMBUS (AP) — Two sex offenders are challenging a new state law that will change the way sex offenders are classified and can affect their registration requirements.

The Cincinnati-based Ohio Justice and Policy Center, joined by other groups including the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio, filed suit this week in the Ohio Supreme Court.

Changes in Ohio law that will be effective Jan. 1 bring the state into compliance with federal law. The laws classify sex offenders in three tiers, based on the crime for which the offender was convicted and without considering the likelihood of repeat offenses.

Current state law requires fewer years of registration and classifies sex offenders based on their likeliness to commit another sex crime.

Two female former prison workers who pleaded guilty to having consensual sex with inmates are challenging the change. Both were designated sexually oriented offenders, the lowest classification, requiring 10 years’ registration.

The changes in law mean both would be required to register for the rest of their lives.

This is a second constitutional challenge of the state’s sex-offender laws by David Singleton, executive director of the Ohio Justice and Policy Center, before the state Supreme Court.