As the saying goes, “rules are meant to be broken.” However, when it comes to having a fake ID, there are serious consequences that you must be willing to face if you’re caught using it.

More often than not, young people have a desire to experience the adventurous college life but are restricted by age limits for clubs, concerts, and events that require them to be 21 and above. This leads to the creation of a “fake ID culture.” In Ohio, owning or using a fake ID can result in a criminal charge. It is, therefore, imperative to know the Ohio scannable fake ID charges and what happens if you are caught.

The Law In Ohio On Fake IDs

The legal drinking age in Ohio is 21 years old. Any person who is caught using or in the possession of a fake ID will face criminal charges that could have serious penalties. Ohio Revised Code Section 2913.42 makes it clear that the manufacture, sale, or possession of a falsified identification card is a crime.

Fake ID charges in Ohio can range from a misdemeanor to a felony depending on the type of identification you have and the severity of the crime. To be considered a felony, the severity of the offense must be high, which means that you got involved in an illegal activity or that you intended to engage in criminal activity with the fake ID.

Types Of Fake IDs

Today’s fake IDs are more sophisticated, with many possessing magnetic strips that allow them to scan, making it impossible for a quick visual inspection or simple black light test to detect them. There are two kinds of false identification in circulation; they include:

1. A “novelty” ID: A novelty ID has printed information only and does not have magnetic stripes or holograms. These types of fake IDs are usually purchased online from different websites. They are often used for prank purposes or Halloween costumes and are not used with the intention of illegal activities. Possession of them won’t result in criminal charges.

2. A “real” or “genuine” fake ID: A real fake ID is an identification card that was made with the intention of illegally buying alcohol, cigarettes, or participating in other activities that they are restricted from due to their age. These types of false identification cards are high-quality and possess several attributes that make them look authentic. For instance, they have magnetic stripes, holograms, and other features that make them look identical to real IDs.

Ohio Scannable Fake-ID Laws

Ohio law enforcement officers are always vigilant to detect fake identification cards. They are trained to identify the telltale signs of authentic identification cards and are often equipped with various gadgets and technologies for verifying the legitimacy of an ID.

These gadgets include scanners, which can easily detect fake IDs by conducting a magnetic stripe or barcode check. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the fake identification card you intend to use is scannable.

Ohio Scannable Fake ID charges will be pressed against you if any of the following happens:

1. Your License Doesn’t Scan: Ohio officers have access to software solutions that can quickly read and identify authentic licenses. If your scannable ID doesn’t scan properly, it’s possible that the officers might detect it.

2. Fake Holograms: The holograms that are often present on government-issued IDs can be difficult to replicate. If the officers identify that the hologram on your ID is false, you could face criminal charges.

3. Misdemeanor Charges: If you use a falsified ID to obtain alcohol or purchase tobacco, you could end up facing misdemeanor charges. The penalties involved results in expensive fines, jail time, or even community service.

4. Felony Charges: Creating or distributing false identification cards can result in felony charges. If you’re caught making or distributing fake IDs, you could face a criminal record, heavy fines, and a long-term prison sentence.

The Penalties Of Using A Fake ID In Ohio

The penalties for possessing or using a fake ID in Ohio vary depending on the severity of the crime committed. The Ohio scannable fake ID charges include:

1. Misdemeanor Charges: The use of a fake ID to buy alcohol or tobacco could result in a fourth-degree misdemeanor charge. The fine involved if you’re found guilty will be up to $250 in fines and/or up to thirty days in prison.

2. Felony Charges: Having or using a fake ID with the intent to commit a felony, such as purchasing illegal drugs or materials that cannot be easily acquired through legitimate channels, is a more serious crime. Such offenses carry the maximum penalty of even up to ten years in prison, depending on how severe the case is.

Additionally, you’ll also be required to pay fines ranging from $5000 or beyond. It is thus crucial to avoid obtaining, making, or selling fake IDs in any form. If caught, the Ohio scannable fake ID charges could end up ruining your future.

What Happens If You Are Caught Using A Fake ID In Ohio?

It’s important to understand that using a fake ID in Ohio will not only put you in legal trouble, but it can also lead to humiliation, embarrassment, and other unfortunate consequences. Officers in Ohio might catch you using a fake ID through a legal checkpoint or law enforcement patrols.

If you’re caught using a fake ID, your ID will be confiscated, and you’ll be charged with an Ohio Scannable Fake ID offense. If you’re a student, the university or college you attend will be notified of the fake ID. This could lead to disciplinary actions and even possible expulsion from the institution.

If you’re an international student, an Ohio Scannable Fake ID offense could result in deportation. Law enforcement officers have zero-tolerance for students who could be potential threats to the community. Therefore, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what Ohio Scannable Fake ID charges entail.

Conclusion

Owning a fake ID might seem harmless and an easy way to gain access to events with age limits. But, it’s crucial to understand that using a fake ID can lead to severe consequences in the state of Ohio. To avoid Ohio Scannable Fake ID charges, you can obtain a valid identification card legally or wait until you reach the legal age required.

Penalties for offenders are costly and could lead to severe criminal records. If you are caught with a fake ID in Ohio, you’ll be required to pay heavy fines, spend time in jail, and face the consequences for many years to come. It is thus essential to weigh the benefits against the risks before deciding to obtain and use a falsified identification card.