Illegal Transportation of Alcohol Across Ohio State Lines

Most people think it is no big deal to buy alcohol in another state and bring it to Ohio. After all, you can save some money, and if you are over 21, it’s legal to have alcohol. With the cost of a keg lower in other states, people are willing to drive from Columbus to other states in order to save some money. Unfortunately, these actions can get you in trouble.

In Ohio, it is against the law to transport alcohol across state lines for sale or personal consumption without a proper permit. If you are caught transporting beer, intoxicating liquor, and wine into the state of Ohio from Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, West Virginia, or Pennsylvania without an H permit, it is considered unlawfully acquired. If you are caught, you can be issued a citation, have the alcohol confiscated, and face other penalties.

Ohio Alcohol Transportation Statute

If you are accused of illegal transportation of alcohol, you face prosecution under Ohio Revised code 4301.60. It clearly states that a person who should not transport beer, intoxicating liquor, or alcohol in the state.

If you are caught in the act, Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Investigative Unit can apply this law to its fullest extent, which has been upheld in the courts. While law enforcement will still have to definitively prove that the alcohol crossed state lines, this law can be enforced no matter how much alcohol you were transporting. Even if you had no idea that your actions were illegal, you face the same penalties.

Call Columbus Criminal Defense to Fight Alcohol Violation Charges

It is no joking matter to be accused of violating Ohio alcohol law. Even minor misdemeanors punishable by fines only can have more serious long-term consequences if they are alcohol related. That’s why the experienced attorneys on the Columbus Criminal Defense team will aggressively work to defend you against all charges. We will review evidence, raise relevant legal issues, and vigorously represent your best interests. Don’t let such a small mistake become a bigger issue. Call the dedicated Ohio criminal defense lawyers at Luftman, Heck, and Associates today to find out how we may be able to help. We are available 24/7 for our clients, so you can reach us at (614) 500-3836 or via email at advice@columbuscriminalattorney.com at any time.