Snapchat Scandal: Two Teens Charged After Explicit Video Circulates Across Ohio Schools
In Sandusky, Ohio, a case involving teen sexting has escalated into felony charges after a sexually explicit Snapchat video circulated among students in five school districts.
The incident began when an 18-year-old high school senior and his 16-year-old girlfriend exchanged nude videos via Snapchat. While their relationship was legal under Ohio law, the sharing of explicit content involving a child became a criminal offence.
The situation worsened when the 16-year-old saved one of the videos. A 14-year-old friend, who had access to her Snapchat account, discovered the clip and shared it with others. Police estimate that the video was viewed by hundreds of students across multiple schools.
Both the 18-year-old and the 14-year-old have been charged with fifth-degree felonies for disseminating sexually explicit material to children. The 16-year-old girl may also face charges, though her videos have not yet been found on other students’ devices.
Detective Joe Rotuno acknowledged the complexity of the case, noting that laws around teen sexting haven’t fully caught up with technology. Still, he emphasized that the teens involved had broken the law and must face the consequences.
This case highlights critical rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child: the child’s right to fair treatment for children in conflict with the law, and the right against sexual exploitation and abuse.
