Cleveland Kidnapping Lawyer
Former Prosecutors Fighting for You
The Ohio Revised Code defines kidnapping (O.R.C. 2905.01) as using threats, force, or deception to remove a person from the place where they were found, or restrain their liberty, for any of several specified purposes.
These include the following…
- Holding for ransom
- Facilitating a crime or flight from a crime
- Holding the victim in involuntary servitude
- Sexually assaulting the victim
Kidnapping is an extremely serious felony and penalties are severe. When a victim has been released unharmed in a safe place, the charge will be a second-degree felony, with a maximum of 8 years. In other circumstances, kidnapping is a first-degree felony with sentencing guidelines that can include life in prison.
The Cleveland kidnapping defense attorneys at Patituce & Associates protect our clients in Ohio when they’re facing the most serious charges. Call us today at (440) 771-1175!
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Abduction Charges (O.R.C. 2905.02)When a person knowingly removes another from the place where they were found using threats or force or restrains their liberty in a way that creates a risk of harm to them or holds another in a condition of involuntary servitude, they can be charged with abduction by Cleveland prosecutors. Abduction penalties are heavy; it is a third-degree felony with a possible five years if convicted; however, some circumstances can upgrade it to a second-degree felony. When there is sexual motivation or involuntary servitude, you can face up to eight years.
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Unlawful Restraint (O.R.C. 2905.03)When you knowingly engage in conduct that restrains another person from their liberty, you can be charged with unlawful restraint by Cleveland prosecutors. While unlawful restraint a misdemeanor of the third degree that carries a sentence of up to 60 days in jail if convicted, it is often charged as part of a larger indictment or as a lesser included charge in a kidnapping or abduction case. Experienced legal help is a must.
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Human Trafficking (O.R.C. 2905.32)Human trafficking is an extremely serious offense in every jurisdiction in the United States-and strong laws are in place to punish those convicted of it. In Cleveland, prosecutors can charge under trafficking in persons in a variety of circumstances where victims are held against their will for any number of purposes. This is a first-degree felony with definite sentencing, so you will face between 10 and 15 years in prison if convicted.
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Unlawful Conduct with Respect to Documents (O.R.C. 2905.33)Related to abduction, human trafficking, and other statutes, unlawful conduct with respect to documents is the charge that you took, held, or destroyed a person’s government-issued identification, passport, or other valid identifying paperwork, as part of a furtherance of another criminal act like kidnapping or compelling prostitution. On its own, this is a third-degree felony charge with up to five years in prison if you’re convicted.
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Suggested Reading
Talk to a Cleveland Kidnaping Defense Attorney Today
The Cleveland kidnapping lawyers at Patituce & Associates are experienced criminal defense attorneys who used to be prosecutors. We know how cases are built to support even serious charges, and we know how to protect our clients.
If you or a family member need help with criminal charges, call (440) 771-1175 for a free consultation with our experienced Cleveland kidnapping attorneys.
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- Martha L.
Seeking representation for federal charges against my husband led me to engage with an attorney from this firm. Swiftly connected with Joe Patituce, we made the decision to enlist his services that very day, a choice we're grateful for.
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- Cora B.
Their friendly and approachable team provided unwavering support. They worked diligently to build a robust defense, ensuring my side of the story was heard and considered!!!
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- Former Client
Cate Purdum was present, attentive, always returned my calls (I had attorneys before who never call you back), answered my questions and never ignored my calls. If I ever need an attorney in the future I will definitely go back to her.
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- Roberto M.
Catherine Meehan did an amazing job. Very responsive, friendly, and obviously very good with words. She kept me out of jail and home with my kiddo. For that I can't ever repay the favor. Much appreciated hope I never need your assistance again but if so I'll definitely give you a call. Thank you again.
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- Thomas S.
I am very satisfied with Rachelle and Joe they were talking me through my whole case and when I told them I wanted a trial they agreed and said let’s go to trial with out hesitation they were very professional and I couldn’t ask for a better law firm to have my back in my court case thank you Rachelle and Joe I highly recommend them to everybody
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- Levi G.
Joe helped my brother beat a serious RICO charge. He is simply the best criminal defense lawyer out there, and provides a clear-cut path to victory. I am extremely impressed and thankful for the hard work and dedication the team at Patituce & Associates put in on this case. It feels great to come out on the winning side, and not have to sweat a thing during the whole process. I highly recommend hiring Joe and his expert staff if you ever find yourself in any legal trouble. Thank you Joe!
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So kind and helpful! Don’t know what I would’ve done without him. Joe was kind and informative throughout the whole- Maddy P.
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- Glenn G.
I engaged Joe Patituce's services for my DUI case in Rocky River, and I couldn't have made a better choice. He and his team demonstrated excellence throughout, managing my case with remarkable skill and professionalism.
