State Reps. Thomas and Synenberg Introduce Legislation to Penalize Jury Tampering in Criminal Cases

State Representative David Thomas (R-Jefferson), joined by Representative Eric Synenberg (D-Beachwood), have introduced H.B. 478 to penalize jury tampering in Ohio, following a troubling incident in Ashtabula County where a juror was intimidated via social media during an active criminal trial.

The juror received a Facebook message from an associate of the accused stating, “you better vote the right way to end this as not guilty.” The message prompted concerns of mistrial and exposed a gap in Ohio law: while bribery of jurors is prohibited, intimidation or tampering in criminal cases is not clearly addressed.

“I am grateful to our judges in Ashtabula County for bringing this to the legislature’s attention and for our partners in the legal profession for helping refine this bill over the summer,” said Rep. Thomas. “It is just commonsense that we should not allow jurors to be intimidated or influenced in Ohio.”

Working closely with Ashtabula County Common Pleas Judges, Reps. Thomas and Synenberg crafted legislation that:

• Creates the offense of jury tampering, prohibiting attempts to influence, intimidate, or hinder a juror.
• Establishes penalties of:
  
  • A first-degree misdemeanor for general attempts; and
  • A third-degree felony for attempts involving force or threats.
• Expands the definition of “public servant” in existing law to include jurors.

“Jury service is a civic responsibility that everyone shares when called, and those who serve deserve to do so without fear or intimidation,” said Rep. Synenberg. “We hope this commonsense bill will help protect jurors from interference and can ensure that those who serve can do so safely and fairly.”  

The bill awaits a committee assignment.