August 26, 2025 | Sex Crimes
Most people assume that only the most serious sex crimes (like rape or child molestation) can result in being labeled a sex offender. In Ohio, however, that isn’t always the case. A number of charges, some of which may not even seem sexual at first glance, can require mandatory sex offender registration if there is a conviction.
Being placed on Ohio’s sex offender registry is life-changing. It can limit where you live, where you work, and how you interact in your community. That’s why it’s important to understand which charges carry this risk and why working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer is essential if you’re facing one of them.
Here are some examples of surprising things that can get you labeled as a sex offender in Ohio.
Public Indecency
One of the lesser-known offenses that can land someone on the sex offender registry is public indecency. This law covers a wide range of behavior, from exposing yourself in public to engaging in sexual conduct where others might see you.
While it might sound minor compared to other crimes, a conviction for public indecency can lead to sex offender registration if minors are present or involved. Something as seemingly harmless as urinating in public could escalate into a criminal charge that carries life-altering consequences.
Unlawful Sexual Conduct With a Minor
Ohio law sets the age of consent at 16 years old. That means any sexual conduct with someone under 16 is considered unlawful, regardless of whether the younger person willingly participated. What surprises many people is that the law still applies if the older person is close in age to the minor.
Although Ohio does have a “Romeo and Juliet” exception in place for those circumstances, that exception only lessens the potential penalties rather than providing a complete defense.
Importuning (Online Solicitation)
In today’s digital age, many cases begin online. Ohio’s importuning law makes it illegal to solicit sex from a minor using text messages, social media, or other electronic communication.
Importantly, you can still face these charges even if no physical contact is ever made. A conviction for importuning almost always results in mandatory sex offender registration, so it is critical that you understand your options for defending yourself.
Voyeurism
Another surprising offense that can require sex offender status is voyeurism, meaning secretly observing or recording another person without their consent when they are in a private setting, such as a bathroom or bedroom.
Technology has made voyeurism easier to commit but also easier to detect. Something as seemingly small as taking a photo without permission can result in charges that trigger registration.
Sexual Imposition
Sexual imposition refers to unwanted sexual contact that doesn’t rise to the level of rape or sexual battery. For example, inappropriately touching another person in a way they did not consent to may fall under this law.
While some might expect a conviction for sexual imposition to carry lighter penalties, it can also result in mandatory sex offender registration depending on the circumstances.
Contact the Dayton Sex Crimes Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today
The list of offenses that can result in sex offender registration in Ohio is longer than many people realize. From public indecency to online solicitation, a momentary mistake or misunderstanding can have lasting consequences.
If you’ve been charged with a crime that could lead to sex offender status, don’t wait to protect yourself. A skilled Ohio criminal defense lawyer can review the details of your case and fight to keep your future intact.
For more information, contact the sex crimes attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers, give us a call today at (937) 531-0435 or visit us at our Dayton Law Office.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Dayton
130 West Second Street #17-129,
Dayton, OH 45402
(937) 531-0435
