January 8, 2026 | Sex Crimes
The internet has made communication faster and easier than ever, but it has also led to new categories of criminal charges. One of the most serious is online solicitation of a minor, which involves using some form of electronic communication to contact, entice, or attempt to meet someone under 18 for illegal sexual activity.
This sex crime is treated as a felony in Ohio and can carry severe penalties regardless of whether any physical contact ever occurs. This means that, for example, simply exchanging messages can be enough to result in an arrest.
How Ohio Law Defines Online Solicitation of a Minor
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2907.21 and § 2907.07, it is illegal for an adult to use the internet, including texting, social media, email, and online chat, to solicit sexual activity with a person under 18 years old.
To secure a conviction, prosecutors must generally prove:
- The defendant knowingly used an online device to contact someone believed to be a minor.
- The communication involved an intent to engage in sexual conduct or activity.
- The defendant took a step toward committing that act, such as arranging a meeting and/or sending explicit material.
Importantly, this crime can still be charged even if the “minor” is actually an undercover police officer posing as a child in an online sting operation. The law focuses on criminal intent, meaning the belief that a person was underage is often enough for charges to move forward.
What Are the Penalties for Online Solicitation in Ohio?
Online solicitation of a minor is considered a serious felony offense under Ohio law. The exact classification and punishment depend on the facts of the case, including the age of the alleged victim and whether the defendant has prior offenses.
Possible penalties can include:
- Several years in prison, with longer sentences for solicitation involving minors under 13
- Thousands of dollars in fines
- Mandatory registration as a sex offender under Ohio’s Sex Offender Registration and Notification (SORN) laws
- Restrictions on employment, housing, and internet use after release
The fact of being labeled as a sex offender alone can have lasting personal and professional consequences. It’s paramount that you contact a defense lawyer for help immediately if you are facing these charges.
What Defenses Are Available to Online Solicitation Charges?
These charges are extremely serious, but there may still be ways for you to respond effectively under the law. Common defenses include:
- Entrapment: Law enforcement induced the defendant to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed.
- Lack of intent: The messages were taken out of context, or there was no actual intent to engage in sexual conduct.
- Mistaken identity: Someone else may have used the defendant’s account or device.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution cannot prove that the communications in question meet the legal definition of solicitation.
Each case is fact-specific at the end of the day, so your lawyer will conduct thorough research and investigatory work to determine your best path forward.
Contact an Experienced Ohio Sex Crimes Lawyer if You’re Charged With Online Solicitation of a Minor
An allegation of online solicitation of a minor can be devastating to your reputation and your future. These cases move quickly, and prosecutors often use aggressive tactics to secure convictions. Having skilled legal representation from the beginning can make all the difference in protecting your rights appropriately.
If you’re facing online solicitation charges in Ohio, contact a criminal defense lawyer with Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers right away for a free initial consultation.
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
