COLUMBUS, OH — Governor Mike DeWine has signed a new bill into law aimed at protecting individuals from the harmful crime of sextortion. The legislation, known as Braden’s Law, was sponsored by Representatives Beth Lear (R-Galena) and Brian Lorenz (R-Powell).
Named after Braden Markus, an Olentangy High School student who tragically took his own life after being coerced into sharing explicit photos online, the bill addresses the growing issue of sextortion. Braden was extorted for $1,800 under threats that his private photos would be shared on social media.
Braden’s Law makes it a criminal offense to threaten to release, display, or distribute someone else’s private images for financial gain. The law establishes that sextortion will be charged as a third-degree felony, with penalties escalating to a first-degree felony if the victim is a minor, elderly, or disabled. It also covers coercion into committing acts against one’s will, obtaining additional private images, or securing any other form of value.
The legislation also ensures that requests for digital access to a deceased minor’s device by a parent or guardian are expedited. In addition, the law absolves cell phone carriers of liability, allowing them to cooperate quickly with families of victims.
Braden’s Law is a significant step in providing stronger protections against sextortion and ensuring that victims and their families receive prompt support during difficult circumstances.
