The bill, introduced by Senator Gavarone, seeks to amend sections 2903.41, 2903.42, and 2903.43 of the Revised Code and enact section 5503.102, with the aim of expanding Ohio's violent offender database. Key changes include a redefinition of "violent offender" to encompass individuals convicted of specific violent crimes after March 20, 2019, as well as those convicted of a second-degree felony under section 2903.18. The bill also introduces "qualifying out-of-state violent offenders" and mandates that information from the database be publicly accessible online and through the Law Enforcement Automated Data System (LEADS).

The legislation outlines a clear enrollment process for violent offenders, requiring them to register personally with their county sheriff within ten days of sentencing or release. It establishes a rebuttable presumption for a ten-year enrollment period, during which offenders must provide detailed personal information and update any changes annually. The bill emphasizes the importance of informing offenders about their obligations and the consequences of non-compliance, while also introducing penalties for violations. Additionally, it includes provisions for a publicly available online portal for certain information, while safeguarding sensitive data, and enhances law enforcement's monitoring capabilities by allowing the automated data system to flag registered offenders.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.41, 2903.42, 2903.43