How Long After Sexual Assault of a Minor Can Charges Still be Pressed
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Ohio. My stepfather raped and tortured me for about two years between the ages of 11-13. I told my mother, and she continued to leave me alone with him to prove her trust in him. She is still married to him. I am now 38 and have located my stepsister after 34 years of separation. He raped her too. My question is whether there is any legal action we can take against him. If the statute of limitations has passed in Ohio for his crimes, can he sue us for talking about it publicly? I've suffered years of mental health issues. Any advice is appreciated. I did not have repressed memories.
Re: Raped by Stepfather; Mother Knew
It is indeed past the statute of limitations for any criminal complaint.
This does mean that you cannot state that he's guilty of A, B or C without risking a lawsuit - and you do not want to be on the wrong of such a suit.
Re: Raped by Stepfather; Mother Knew
At this point...it will be your word versus theirs....unless a child was born from one of those rapes, there is no evidence to prove your case.
Speaking publicly at this point - he could sue you for Defamation of Character. You have no criminal case, no proof.