Threats To Property And Pets

Summary

Threatening to burn down property or harm pets is illegal in Ohio under ORC 2903.21(A)(1) and ORC 2909.06. Report such threats to local police for potential charges. A prosecutor will decide on pressing charges based on the evidence.

Full Conversation

Is it illegal for someone to threaten me to burn down my garage and poison my dogs?
Hello **** ****. Yes, making such threats is generally illegal as it constitutes criminal threat or harassment. The exact laws depend on your location. Could you please tell me where you are located?
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Hello **** ****. In * (Ohio), threatening harm to pets or property is considered menacing or criminal damaging/endangering. Here are the details:
- ORC *.*(A)(*): Aggravated Menacing
- ORC *.*: Criminal Damaging or Endangering
You should report this to your local police department.
Can I press charges?
Yes, in Ohio, you can report the incident to the police who will then decide if charges should be filed based on the evidence provided. A prosecutor will ultimately decide to press charges based on the case's merit.