Ohio bill would make doxxing officers a third-degree felony

A bill introduced at the Ohio Statehouse would bar publishing a peace officer's home address, birth date or phone number when the intent is to intimidate, threaten or cause physical harm. The measure, sponsored by State Rep. Gayle Manning, a Republican from North Ridgeville, carries a third-degree felony charge for violations, with penalties of up to a $10,000 fine, probation or prison time.

Manning said she took up the issue after the Lorain Police Department contacted her about an officer who drew nationwide backlash online and was later cleared of wrongdoing. "They were found they had not done anything wrong, but then that information goes viral," Manning said. "And all of a sudden, because of social media, it was all over the United States."

The bill targets malicious doxxing and harassment. It would leave routine reporting and other speech untouched, Manning said. "It would not affect the news," she said. "It would not affect if it was on your phone."

A comparable federal measure covering law enforcement officers was introduced in Congress last September and has stayed in committee. Manning said Ohio's proposal is moving with more support behind it. "It's a bipartisan bill, and the fact that we do have two retired peace officers that serve in the legislature that signed on, I think is a really good sign," she said.

The current legislative session is winding down, leaving limited time to pass the measure this year. Manning said she will reintroduce the bill in the next session if it does not advance.