Legal Question in Criminal Law in Ohio

Car keying sentencing

What is the likely jail sentence if convicted of keying a car or cars? I've been accused of this and have put together a good defense that I am not the guy who got into an argument with the accusers, but my Attorney says it is never good when there are three people saying it was you. Of course, this is based on them saying the guy they got into an argument with had dark hair. I am blond and had a shaved head at the time and have notorized statements from friends, family and even an FBI Agent I met with advising on matters pertaining to the War on Terror (my major is Middle Eastern Religious Studies), saying that my head was shaven around that time.

I want to be informed of the worst case scenario though. I have absolutely no criminal record, am a full time student, Martial Arts teacher, married father of three and do not get into conflicts with people. What is the worst case scenario?


Asked on 4/15/07, 1:54 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Richard Cline Office of the Ohio Public Defender

Re: Car keying sentencing

Without knowing the exact charge (code section and title) it is difficult to answer your question. It sounds like felony vandalism, which is normally a fourth or fifth degree felony. The maximum sentence on a fourth degree felony is 18 months; for a fifth degree felony it is 12 months. Incarceration is not required, but if the Court did impose a sentence of incarceration it would likely be served in a state prison. The court can also impose a fine of up to $2,500.00 for a fifth degree felony and up to $5,000.00 for a fourth degree felony.

It sounds like you and your attorney are considering all of the issues. I would recommend you meet with the attorney again to make sure that you understand all of the risks, whether an offer to settle with a plea bargain is available, and then decide what to do.

Good luck

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Answered on 4/15/07, 2:03 pm


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