The bill amends sections of the Revised Code to enhance the consideration of an offender's role as a primary caretaker of a child during sentencing, particularly in relation to community control sanctions and intervention in lieu of conviction. It mandates that courts take into account the offender's status as a primary caretaker alongside other factors such as their criminal record and information presented at the hearing. The bill also clarifies the language regarding presentence investigation reports and emphasizes the importance of victim impact statements, aiming to create a more rehabilitative approach to sentencing for offenders who are primary caretakers.

In addition to these provisions, the bill establishes a framework for "intervention in lieu of conviction," allowing eligible offenders to avoid a criminal conviction by complying with a court-imposed intervention plan. The court is required to presume that intervention is appropriate unless there are specific reasons to deny it. Offenders must adhere to conditions such as abstaining from illegal substances and participating in treatment programs, with successful completion leading to the dismissal of charges. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the court and supervising authorities in monitoring compliance and includes provisions for additional sanctions if terms are not met, ultimately aiming to provide a more rehabilitative approach to certain offenses while ensuring accountability.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2929.19, 2951.03, 2951.041