Beware of owner: New law empowers residents

By Marc Kovac

The new law forces criminals to prove they did not intend to harm occupants.

COLUMBUS — Ohioans woke up today with added legal protections against criminals who break into their homes or cars.

The new law protects residents who use force to stop such intrusions.

The so-called Castle Doctrine, passed by lawmakers and signed by Gov. Ted Strickland earlier this year, provides legal protection — that is, a presumption that they acted in self-defense — for individuals who use force to thwart others who have entered their homes, businesses or vehicles unlawfully.

Under the previous law, residents defending their homes against intruders had to prove that the perpetrators were close enough to do them harm and intended to do harm. The new law reverses those roles, forcing criminals to prove they did not intend to harm occupants.

Another provision covers acts of self-defense in homes or elsewhere and prevents criminals from seeking civil recourse if injured while attacking others.

Lawmakers also added a number of amendments clarifying the state’s concealed-carry laws, including provisions related to the transport of firearms in vehicles and requirements for law enforcement to hold and return weapons that are seized.

Sen. Steve Buehrer, a Republican from Delta in northwest Ohio and primary sponsor of the legislation, worked on the bill for several years and a couple of general assemblies. He called its passage and today’s implementation a victory for law-abiding citizens.

“I think it’s a great victory not only for people who support Second Amendment issues but people who simply want to feel safer in their homes, safer in their communities,” he said.

mkovac@dixcom.com