Cleveland, OH — An Ohio man with a troubling criminal history has been sentenced to just 18 months in prison after kidnapping a woman and keeping her hostage inside a garage — his third known offense of a similar nature, according to court records.
Prosecutors said the man lured the victim before forcibly restraining her in a garage, where she was held against her will until authorities intervened. The woman was rescued and is now receiving support services.
What has sparked outrage among community members and victim advocates, however, is the sentencing. Despite the severity of the crime — and the defendant’s history of repeated similar offenses — he received only 18 months behind bars.
“This sends a dangerous message to survivors of abuse and assault,” one advocate said. “When repeat offenders walk away with light sentences, victims lose trust in the justice system.”
Court documents revealed that the man had previously faced charges related to unlawful imprisonment and assault in two separate cases. In each instance, he served minimal jail time.
Local officials acknowledged the frustration surrounding the case. “We understand the public’s concern,” a spokesperson for the prosecutor’s office said. “But sentencing guidelines are determined by state law, and the judge’s decision reflects those limitations.”
Advocates are now calling for reforms in Ohio’s sentencing laws to ensure repeat violent offenders face harsher penalties. “Eighteen months is not justice,” said one activist outside the courthouse. “It’s an invitation for him to reoffend.”
The victim, whose identity is being withheld for her safety, is continuing her recovery.