Unfortunately, there are instances where one could be charged with the crime of Kidnapping even if it was one’s own child. Kidnapping charges involving a parent and their own child are relatively rare, but they can occur under certain circumstances, particularly if there is a dispute over child custody or if the actions of the parent are deemed to endanger the child’s safety.

• Custody Disputes: In cases where there is a custody dispute between two parents, and one parent takes the child without the other parent’s consent or in violation of a court-ordered custody arrangement, the parent taking the child may be charged with parental abduction or a similar offense. The specific charges and penalties can vary by jurisdiction.
• Endangerment: If a parent’s actions are deemed to put the child’s safety or well-being at risk, such as removing the child from a medical facility against medical advice or taking the child to a dangerous environment, the parent may face criminal charges, which could include kidnapping or related offenses.

Kidnapping doesn’t necessarily involve taking of a child. Kidnapping is a crime that can involve individuals of any age, and it typically refers to the unlawful abduction, restraint, or confinement of another person against their will. While there can be cases where children are the victims of kidnapping, adults can also be kidnapped.

• Kidnapping (Without Serious Physical Harm or Sexual Motivation): If the victim is not seriously harmed, and there is no sexual motivation involved, kidnapping is typically charged as a second-degree felony. The penalties for a second-degree felony in Ohio can include a prison sentence of 2 to 8 years and fines of up to $15,000.
• Kidnapping (Felonious Assault or Sexual Motivation): If someone is kidnapped, and the offender either inflicts serious physical harm or commits the crime with a sexual motivation, it can be charged as a first-degree felony. Penalties for a first-degree felony in Ohio can include a prison term of 3 to 11 years and fines of up to $20,000.
• Aggravated Kidnapping: Aggravated kidnapping may involve additional factors, such as using a deadly weapon, causing serious harm to the victim, or holding the victim for a longer period. Penalties for aggravated kidnapping can be more severe and may result in a longer prison sentence.

In cases involving serious charges like kidnapping, the bail amount is likely to be substantial because the court wants to minimize the risk of the defendant fleeing or posing a danger to others. Kidnapping is considered a serious felony in Ohio, and bail amounts for serious felonies can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Defendants who are unable to pay the full bail amount may seek the services of a bail bondsman. At SMD & HLS Bail Bonds, we are able to help fill this need and post bond for you or your loved one, so they are able to seek council and defend themselves against allegations of kidnapping.