Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles

ORC § 2907.31

Definition of Disseminating matter harmful to juveniles:

• Recklessly and with knowledge of its character or content,
• Selling or presenting to juveniles,
• Obscene or harmful to juvenile

Potential Defense:

If the material that was disseminated is harmful, but not obscene, defenses exists if the disseminator is a parent or guardian, if the parent or guardian was present at the time of the offense and offered consent, or if the juvenile involved presented an apparently official document showing that they were 18 years old.

Potential Penalties:

Disseminating matter harmful to juveniles is a misdemeanor of the first degree if the material is harmful but not obscene. As misdemeanor of the first degree, a guilty verdict can result in a prison sentence of up to 180 days and a fine of up to $1000. If the material is obscene, a violation is treated as a felony of the fourth degree and is penalized by a prison sentence of 6-18 months and a fine of up to $5000.

At Funkhouser Law, from the moment a client walks through the door, we presume that they are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. As such, we work hard to accomplish the most favorable outcome for each of our clients. 

If you have been accused of disseminating matter harmful to juveniles, please call Funkhouser Law for a free consultation with an experienced, peer-rated lawyer.