Marsy’s Law for Ohio Endorses Ohio Issue 1

Today, Marsy’s Law for Ohio announces its endorsement of Ohio Issue 1 on the November ballot

“Marsy’s Law for Ohio supports the passage of Issue 1 in Ohio this November and the requirement of courts to consider public safety when setting bail amounts. Issue 1 will ensure that victims and accusers can face their defendants in court," says Jessica Ryan, Marsy’s Law for Ohio Communications Director, "Ohio has seen too many examples of violent offenders being released on low bond amounts who go on to re-offend.  Issue 1 will provide courts with more tools to protect victims’ and the public’s safety.”

Issue 1 says that when setting bail amounts, courts must consider public safety, a person's criminal record, the likelihood they'll show up for court, and the seriousness of the crime. Issue 1 aligns with Marsy’s Law in the common goal of protecting victims and ensuring violent abusers stay off the street and avoid possible retaliation to their victims. 

“We must pass State Issue 1. When courts cannot protect its citizens, there is chaos.  We are seeing the impacts of this across the country,” said Hamilton County Prosecutor and Marsy’s Law for Ohio Advisory Board Member Joe Deters. “Victims should not be forced to live in fear while violent offenders walk free. In November, Ohio has the chance to choose a different path.  We can require our courts to protect victims when setting bail on dangerous criminals. The victims of violent crime deserve better from our justice system.”

Marsy’s Law, which was passed in Ohio in 2017 by 83% of voters, gives crime victims meaningful and enforceable constitutional rights equal to the rights of the accused. Some examples of the types of rights to which all Ohio victims are entitled are:

• To be treated with dignity and respect throughout criminal justice proceedings

• To be notified of his, her or their rights as a victim of crime

• To be notified of specific public proceedings throughout the criminal justice process and to be present and heard during those proceedings