The bill, known as Amanda Dean's Law, amends section 2927.01 of the Revised Code to increase the penalties for abuse of a corpse. It establishes that treating a human corpse in a manner that outrages reasonable family or community sensibilities constitutes abuse of a corpse, which is classified as a fifth-degree felony. The bill also introduces a distinction between two types of offenses: "abuse of a corpse" and "gross abuse of a corpse." The latter is defined as treating a corpse in a way that outrages community sensibilities and is classified as a fourth-degree felony, unless the offender dismembers, mutilates, or intentionally disfigures the corpse, which raises the offense to a third-degree felony. If these actions are taken to conceal a crime or obstruct justice, the offense escalates to a second-degree felony.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing section 2927.01, thereby replacing the previous legal framework with the new definitions and penalties outlined in the bill. The changes aim to strengthen the legal consequences for those who commit acts of abuse against human corpses, reflecting a societal commitment to uphold the dignity of the deceased.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2927.01
As Reported By House Committee: 2927.01
As Passed By House: 2927.01