Explanation
The purpose of this legislation is to increase the penalties relative to criminal trespassing as established in Columbus City Codes, 1959. This legislation will amend section 2311.21 by increasing the penalty for those convicted under this section, upon the third or subsequent conviction, by making the offense of criminal trespassing a misdemeanor of the third degree. Additionally, if the person previously has been convicted under this section, upon the fifth fourth or subsequent conviction within a one (1) year period, the offense of criminal trespassing is a misdemeanor of the second degree. The intent of this legislation is to increase the penalties for repeat offenders in order to assist property owners in addressing crime occurring on their property. This ordinance makes the necessary changes to this section that will make it conform to the state statute.
Title
To amend existing Section 2311.21 of the Columbus City Codes, 1959, to increase the penalties relative to criminal trespassing.
Body
WHEREAS, the Columbus Division of Police reports an increase in the number of complaints from residents, visitors, and businesses regarding criminal trespassing throughout the City; and
WHEREAS, examples of criminal trespassing include, but are not limited to, knowingly enter or remain on the land or premises of another; knowingly enter or remain on the land or premises of another, the use of which is lawfully restricted to certain persons, purposes, modes, or hours, when the offender knows he is in violation of any such restriction or is reckless in that regard; recklessly enter or remain on the land or premises of another, as to which notice against unauthorized access or presence is given by actual communication to the offender, or in a manner prescribed by law, or by posting in a manner reasonably calculated to come to the attention of potential intruders, or by fencing or other enclosure manifestly designed to restrict access;...
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