Braden's Law Heads to Governor's Desk

COLUMBUS—House Bill 531, which creates the offense of sexual extortion and makes it a third-degree felony, heads to the Governor's desk for his signature. State Senator Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) supports this bill and introduced companion legislation, Senate Bill 263. 

On October 17, 2021, Olentangy High School sophomore Braden Markus was contacted on social media by a person posing as a 15-year-old girl. “She” was sending Braden lewd photos, convincing Braden to send photos back. The individual then demanded $1,800 or threatened to release the photos online. 27 short minutes later, Braden died by suicide.

“Minors are victims of online sextortion thousands of times every year. Olentangy student Braden Markus is a victim and his death will not be in vain. It is our job as legislators to stop it. HB 531 and my companion bill SB 263 are a great step in the right direction to increase penalties for sextortion. I am glad I can be a part of correcting this wrong and working to stop it in the future. “