The bill amends section 2921.32 of the Revised Code to expand the offense of obstructing justice. Key changes include the insertion of the term "arrest" in multiple places, which broadens the scope of actions that can be classified as obstructing justice. The bill specifies that individuals can be prosecuted for obstructing justice regardless of whether the person they aided is ultimately apprehended or charged with a crime. Additionally, it introduces new provisions that classify obstructing justice as a felony of the fifth degree if it involves preventing or obstructing an arrest by local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies, with specific distinctions for federal agencies engaged in immigration enforcement.

Furthermore, the bill outlines various penalties based on the severity of the crime being aided, including specific classifications for acts of terrorism and trafficking in persons. It also clarifies definitions for terms such as "adult," "child," and "delinquent child" as they relate to the law. The existing section 2921.32 is repealed, indicating a complete overhaul of the previous legal framework regarding obstructing justice.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2921.32