Legislation would penalize so-called revenge porn

YOUNGSTOWN

Ohio Senate Minority Leader Joe Schiavoni introduced legislation that would make it illegal to knowingly distribute a private, sexually explicit image of a person without that person’s consent - also called “revenge porn.”

“The purpose of this legislation is to protect victims and prevent this type of vengeful behavior,” Schiavoni of Boardman, D-33rd, said today. “Currently, people who share these images without consent face no legal ramifications in Ohio. [Thirty-four] other states have already passed similar legislation. It’s time for Ohio to act.”

Under this bill, a first-time offender would be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. Subsequent convictions would be fifth-degree felonies. In addition, victims would be able to file a civil lawsuit against the offender.

For the complete story, read Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com