Ohio laws to know

Ohio’s New Child Grooming Law Aims to Stop Abuse Before It Starts

April 9, 2025 marked a significant shift in how Ohio combats child exploitation.

With the enactment of House Bill 322, Ohio now criminalizes grooming behavior—targeting the manipulative tactics adults use to prepare minors for sexual abuse. This long-awaited legislation fills a gap in the legal system that previously made it difficult to intervene before actual abuse occurred.

What the Law Covers

The new law, codified as Ohio Revised Code 2907.071, defines grooming as a “pattern of conduct” by an adult (18 or older) directed toward a minor under 16, who is at least four years younger than the adult. This behavior must be intended to entice, coerce, or prepare the minor for sexual activity—with either the adult or a third party.

Importantly, the law covers not only overtly inappropriate actions, but also subtle forms of manipulation and control, especially when the adult is in a position of authority or trust—like a teacher, coach, or clergy member.

Examples of Grooming Behavior

The law emphasizes patterns, not isolated acts. Examples of grooming behavior include:

• Showering a child with gifts or attention
• Isolating the child from family or friends
• Introducing sexual topics or physical contact gradually
• Engaging in secretive conversations
• Exploiting trust or authority

These behaviors may appear harmless at first glance, but when viewed together, they raise red flags meant to signal potential danger.

Real-World Scenarios

The “Cool Teacher”: A 32-year-old teacher texts a 13-year-old student late at night, complimenting her looks, encouraging secrecy, and eventually suggesting they meet outside of school. Even without physical contact, this manipulation could now be prosecuted.

The Youth Pastor: A pastor in a mentorship role slowly breaks boundaries with a teen, sharing inappropriate content under the guise of “education.” His authority makes the grooming especially dangerous—and now, criminal.

The Online Predator: A man befriends a 12-year-old gamer online, compliments him, sends gifts, and hints at meeting in person. This digital grooming is also covered under the new law.

Penalties and Consequences

• Second-degree misdemeanor: The standard penalty for grooming.
• Fifth-degree felony: If the child is under 13 or if drugs/alcohol were involved.
• Fourth-degree felony: For repeat offenders or those with past sexual offense convictions.

Additionally, the law strengthens accountability for mandatory reporters—educators, healthcare providers, clergy—who knowingly fail to report suspected abuse. They now face criminal charges for remaining silent.

Why This Matters

The law was inspired in part by public outrage over cases like that of Father Geoff Drew, a former Cincinnati priest convicted of child sexual abuse. Survivors and advocates demanded earlier intervention tools for law enforcement—and House Bill 322 delivers on that need.

By identifying and criminalizing grooming behavior, the law aims to:

• Stop abusers before physical harm occurs
• Protect children from emotional and psychological manipulation
• Encourage schools, parents, and institutions to take early warning signs seriously
• Hold authority figures and bystanders accountable

In Summary

Ohio’s new grooming law is not just about punishment—it’s about prevention. It recognizes that the path to abuse often begins long before a crime is committed, and gives law enforcement the power to step in early. For families, educators, and communities, it’s a powerful tool in the ongoing effort to keep children safe.

If you suspect grooming behavior, speak up. Early action could save a child from lasting trauma.