Ohio § 2903.18
Full text of Ohio Ohio Revised Code § 2903.18, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2903.18.
(A) As used in this section: (1) “ Strangulation or suffocation ” means any act that impedes the normal breathing or circulation of the blood by applying
pressure to the throat or neck, or by covering the nose and mouth. (2) “Dating relationship” has the same meaning as in section 3113.31 of the Revised Code . (3) “Family or household member” has the same meaning as in section 2919.25 of the Revised Code . (4) “ Person with whom the offender is or was in a dating relationship ” means a person who at the time of the conduct in question is in a dating relationship
with the defendant or who, within the twelve months preceding the conduct in question,
has had a dating relationship with the defendant. (B) No person shall knowingly do any of the following: (1) Cause serious physical harm to another by means of strangulation or suffocation; (2) Create a substantial risk of serious physical harm to another by means of strangulation
or suffocation; (3) Cause or create a substantial risk of physical harm to another by means of strangulation
or suffocation. (C) Whoever violates this section is guilty of strangulation. (1) A violation of division (B)(1) of this section is a felony of the second degree. (2) A violation of division (B)(2) of this section is a felony of the third degree. (3) A violation of division (B)(3) of this section is a felony of the fifth degree. If the victim of the violation of division (B)(3) of this section is a family or
household member, or is a person with whom the offender is or was in a dating relationship,
a violation of division (B)(3) of this section is a felony of the fourth degree. If the victim of the offense is a family or household member, or is a person with
whom the offender is or was in a dating relationship, and the offender previously
has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a felony offense of violence, or if the
offender knew that the victim of the violation was pregnant at the time of the violation,
a violation of division (B)(3) of this section is a felony of the third degree. (D) It is an affirmative defense to a charge under division (B) of this section that
the act was done as part of a medical or other procedure undertaken to aid or benefit
the victim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio § 2903.18
What does Ohio Revised Code § 2903.18 cover?
Section 2903.18 is part of the Ohio Revised Code, the codified statutory law of Ohio. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Ohio § 2903.18?
A common citation format is "Ohio Revised Code § 2903.18" (Ohio). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Ohio law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Ohio official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Ohio attorney.
How does Ohio § 2903.18 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Ohio can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Ohio.