Felonies in Ohio are penalized in accordance with the felony sentencing guidelines within the state. The state published documents that state that the point of penalizing those who have committed crimes is to make sure the public is protected against future crimes. The courts aim to use the minimum number of sanctions against a person to accomplish the desired result without imposing unnecessary burdens on local or state resources.
The courts always consider whether or not there is a need for deterrence, rehabilitation, restitution and incapacitation. The sentence needs to be in line with the severity of the crime and should not be based on the offender’s gender, ethnicity, religion or race.
What are some factors the court considers when sentencing?
The courts look at a number of sentencing factors including how much a victim suffered and how, the offender’s relationship with the victim, if the offender was part of a criminal organization, if an act was motivated by prejudice and other important considerations. The court also wants to identify if the individual accused of a crime has past adult convictions, shows a pattern of drug or alcohol abuse or has no genuine remorse. The court has to look at these factors to determine the level of penalties necessary as well as to determine if the likelihood of reoffending is minimal or high.
When you’re accused of a crime, it’s in your interest to present yourself in the best possible light. Presenting yourself in a clean, respectful way along with a good defense can go a distance in helping you fight the charges.