What Happens When You File a Police Report on Someone For Harassment

Ohio strictly enforces criminal and traffic offenses like driving under the influence, drug crimes, and criminal harassment. Criminal harassment type crimes cover a number of different prohibited acts including public indecency, menacing by stalking, sexual imposition (i.e., nonconsensual sexual contact), The penalties associated with each type of prohibited behavior will vary depending on the act committed.

Please note that if you are facing harassment charges, we recommend connecting with a Columbus criminal defense attorney. They can help explain your rights to you and help minimize or avoid penalties associated with criminal charges.

As we talk about the differing types of harassment in Ohio, it is also important to note that anyone who is the victim of or witness to harassing behavior can file a police report. Individuals can file a police report in person or online in the city of Columbus via the city’s official website.

When Can You File a Police Report for Harassment?

If someone has reason to believe they are being harassed, they can file a police report when they become aware.  Reports can often be filed in person at a police station or local prosecutor’s office.  Some areas may allow online filing as well. The filing of the report is subject to deadlines set by law (often called statute of limitations).

If you are currently accused of harassment, be sure to reach out to a Columbus criminal defense attorney here at The Maher Law Firm, LLC. Our attorney Colin Maher offers free phone consultations where he can take a closer look at your case.

What Happens When You File a Police Report For Harassment?

When a police report is filed, the following is typically what occurs:

1. The police report on harassment is filed by an individual that has reason to believe they have been harassed or are being harassed. They will file this report either in person or online. If the harassment is an emergency, the individual may call 911.
2. Evidence of the harassment will need to be submitted. This can include things like:
   1. Emails
   2. Text messages or other direct messages

• Social media posts

1. Phone records
2. Photographic or video evidence of the harassment
3. Eyewitness contact information

3. Evidence will be reviewed by whomever is assigned to do so. Further investigation may be necessary.
4. Once the evidence is reviewed, a decision will be made to file charges against the accused or find that there is not enough evidence to pursue charges.

Specifically in the city of Columbus, some additional information about filing a police report includes:

• All police reports filed online are reviewed by an office assistant. The filer may be contacted if further investigation is needed.
• Upon completion of the report process, each report will be given a temporary police report case number.
• Online reports on a number of different incidents can be made including harassing phone calls, attempted theft of a car, property damage, and vandalism.

Connect with an Experienced Columbus Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are being faced with harassment charges or other types of criminal offenses, we recommend reaching out to a Columbus criminal defense attorney. A criminal defense attorney will be able to look over your charges and help explain all your legal options. You may feel nervous or lost on how to approach criminal charges so let us help at least point you in the right direction.  Even petty offenses can have lasting consequences on you and your life.

Attorney Colin Maher has over 10+ years of experience as a Columbus criminal defense attorney He has a thorough understanding of Ohio law and criminal procedure allowing for a strong defense.  Attorney Maher offers free quotes over the phone by calling 614-205-2208 or by contacting us.