Sponsors propose closing crowdfunding 'Son of Sam' loophole after fundraiser for accused killer

Sponsors of House Bill 505 told the House Technology and Innovation Committee the bill would expand Ohio's "Son of Sam" law to cover crowdfunding platforms and related fundraising so individuals accused or convicted of violent crimes cannot profit.

Representative Abrams described the 2024 death of Deputy Larry Henderson and said online fundraisers appeared that benefited the accused; she said one fundraiser had raised "over $54,000 to this date." Sponsor Odioso said HB 505 would require platforms to return unused or excess funds to donors or remit unclaimed funds to the Attorney General's Crime Victims Recovery Fund, give the Attorney General authority to investigate and impose administrative penalties (testimony referenced penalties up to $10,000 per violation), and require annual reporting by platforms.

Committee members asked how the bill would treat accused versus convicted individuals and whether a rogue prosecutor might be able to cut off funding improperly. Sponsors said the committee process and the Attorney General's Office would help craft safeguards and emphasized that private lawsuits would remain available to families.

Lawmakers also raised concerns about cryptocurrencies and unregulated payment channels that could circumvent platform rules. Sponsors said the bill would be open to committee refinements to address those channels and invited Attorney General experts for future testimony.

Sponsor testimony concluded; the committee closed the first hearing on HB 505 and the meeting adjourned.