The bill amends section 2909.07 and enacts new sections 1923.16 and 2913.53 of the Revised Code to expedite the removal of unauthorized occupants from residential properties and to prohibit fraudulent deeds. Under the new section 1923.16, property owners or their agents can request the county sheriff to remove unauthorized occupants, provided they have given prior written notice and confirmed that the occupant is neither a tenant nor related to the owner. The bill details the procedures the sheriff must follow, including serving a notice to vacate and maintaining peace during the removal process. It also introduces penalties for false statements in removal complaints and clarifies the rights of property owners and law enforcement in addressing unlawful occupancy.

Additionally, the bill establishes new provisions regarding criminal mischief and title fraud, defining specific actions that constitute title fraud and setting penalties for violations. Criminal mischief under division (A)(8) is classified as a felony of the fifth degree, escalating to a felony of the fourth degree for repeat offenders. The bill repeals the existing section 2909.07, which likely contained previous definitions or penalties related to criminal mischief. This legislation is declared an emergency measure, emphasizing the urgency to protect property owners from the risks associated with property ownership loss, and is set to take immediate effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2909.07