What is Complicity?
Complicity in Ohio is a criminal charge that entails being held legally accountable for a crime, by helping or assisting in carrying out the offense.
Complicity can be defined according to the Ohio Revised Code (ORC 2923.03) as anyone who has:
- Solicited or recruited another individual to carry out an offense;
- Aided or abetted another individual to carry out an offense;
- Conspired with another individual to carry out an offense;
- Caused an innocent or irresponsible person to carry out an offense.
Complicity does not always have to include physically carrying out the offense; a person can help plan the crime or serve as a “look-out” and still face complicity charges. If it can be demonstrated that you had knowledge of the event beforehand or somehow participated in actions prior to carrying out the offense, you can still be charged with complicity.
If you are charged with a complicity offense, your conviction will result in the same punishment as that faced by the primary person who carries out the crime. For example, if the other person involved in the crime is charged with a first-degree felony, then you will also face at least three and up to ten years in jail as well as fines of up to $20,000.
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Criminal charges can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. You are probably worried about your freedoms and privileges being at stake and have a lot of questions. You can rest assured, because the Cincinnati Criminal Defense team is here for you. Get the justice that you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (513) 338-1890 or email us at advice@cincinnaticriminalattorney.com.