Could Something Have Been Done

[eturner21]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Ohio

Hi, I live in Ohio, and I'm 16 years old.
When I was in 8th grade, a 13 and then 14 year old, I was repeatedly molested by boys in my own grade. We had recess at my middle school, and whenever I would go outside they would take turns holding my arms behind my back and touching me. I told them to stop numerous times, but they never did. I was too embarrassed to tell anyone. I didn't even tell my mom until I was halfway through my freshman year. I thought maybe the teachers would see and talk to me about it. I know that they saw. They watched. But nothing was ever done. This went on for about 2 months, and then I moved to a new town a few hours away.

I just want to know,
1. Is there anything that could have been done to those boys anyway, if I would have told? We were the same age, but does it still constitute as molestation?
2. Is it too late to do something about this?

Please, any advice would be appreciated. I just feel like I need some closure...

Have an amazing day, whoever reads this. <3

[LawResearcherMissy]

1. Is there anything that could have been done to those boys anyway, if I would have told? We were the same age, but does it still constitute as molestation?

Yes, and yes. You said NO and STOP, you were physically restrained and touched sexually against your will.

2. Is it too late to do something about this?

Likely not. It will turn on what the police determine the charges to be.

Because your attackers are your age, it may be charged as misdemeanor unlawful sexual conduct. That would mean that the Statute of Limitations is very close to ending - you have 2 years. Generally, though, this is more for cases of a pair or 13 year-olds getting it on consensually.

I should think this would be charged as sexual imposition, at the very least, which is a felony here in Ohio. In that case, the SoL is 6 years.

You need to do a couple things. First, you and your Mom need to go to the police. And you, dear heart, need to contact the Rape Crisis center in your area. They are wonderful people who will help you cope with what you've been through - most rape crisis counselors are sexual assault survivors themselves - and they will help you deal with getting your attackers brought to justice.

You and your Mom should also seek the advice of counsel.

[indybail]

I posting just to add another voice in support of the above advice. It is more than just sound advice.