The new law prohibits placing tracking devices on someone without their consent

CINCINNATI — Beginning in March, it will be illegal in Ohio to place a tracking device on someone or something they own without their consent.

Previously, offenders could only be charged with threatening by stalking — a law that required a pattern of two or more prior incidents to support a criminal charge.

“That simple act of placing a tracking device or installing a tracking app, that single incident, law enforcement was like, ‘Our hands are tied, we can’t criminally charge anybody,'” Maria York with Ohio Domestic Violence Network (ODVN) said.

York said this crime is a real problem. ODVN surveyed 40 of their program’s supporters earlier this year. 92% of these attorneys have worked with victims with confirmed cases where tracking devices were used.

“I think we’re just seeing the tip of the iceberg with this,” York said.

York said the scariest part about tracking devices is how small they are.

She referenced an Apple AirTag, which is slightly larger than a quarter. York said victims often find those devices stuck under cars or in tires.

“It’s scary when you think about it — especially for people who are leaving a domestic violence situation, they may have also been victims of stalking,” said Jennifer Ekey of Women Helping Women, a local organization that aims to prevent gender-based violence. and helping survivors.

As the nonprofit’s director of policy and engagement, Ekey hopes the law can help victims in the Cincinnati area.

She works alongside Amber Malott, vice president of prevention at Women Helping Women. Ekey and Malott say that often, victims of domestic violence are also victims of stalking.

The two say their organization has served nearly 9,000 victims this year alone.

“Since the pandemic, domestic violence has definitely increased in our city,” Malott said.

Malott and Ekey say they hope to see those numbers go down, and hope this new law can help get them started.

If you need help, call or text Women helping women hotline at 513-381-5610.