Police urge Ohioans to help stop sex assaults

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

The Ohio Department of Public Safety says recent alcohol- and drug-fueled sex assaults in the state and across the country have prompted them to call on bystanders to intervene.

The department is urging every Ohioan who thinks they may be witnesses such a crime to call police, and if safely able to do so, intervene.

The department reminds residents that sexual assailants often use alcohol and drugs as weapons to help take advantage of their victims.

The department also reminds residents that it’s illegal to have sex with a person who is unwilling or unable to consent because they’re drunk or on drugs.

Department Director John Born says “one sexual assault in Ohio is one too many.”