By Sharon Coolidge
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Starting this week, repeat domestic violence offenders could face more time in prison.

After hearing anecdotes from judges and lawyers about people being repeatedly convicted of domestic violence only to have the same year-long prison sentence hang over their head, State Sen. J. Kirk Schuring, R-Canton, decided to do something about it.

One year in prison wasn't always enough, Schuring said.

So he proposed tougher sentencing laws that give judges the discretion to put somebody convicted of domestic violence in prison for up to five years.

Gov. Bob Taft signed the law Oct. 9. It takes effect Thursday.

"The philosophy is that domestic violence is a very serious offense," Schuring said. "It's a vicious cycle. One year is not enough time to help the victim get out of it or to send a message to the perpetrator that the crime is a serious one."

Prior to the law's passage, the maximum penalty was one year in prison, whether it was a first offense or a third offense.

The new law gives judges discretion to put a third-time offender in prison for up to five years.

"The judge can make the decision based on the facts of the case," Schuring said.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Mike Allen said he's glad to see the new option.

"We're grateful the legislature gave judges this tool," Allen said.

Many times, Allen said, the facts underlying the charge are serious and warrant more prison time.

Ann McDonald, executive director of Rape Crisis and Abuse Center of Hamilton County, formerly Women Helping Women, praised the new law.

"This gives more options to the legal system when a serious crime as been committed," McDonald said. "Domestic violence has only been a law since 1979, it takes time to learn more is needed.

"We're still dealing with myths and stereotypes that domestic violence is not a serious crime," McDonald added. "This helps show the community does believe it's a serious crime."

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E-mail scoolidge@enquirer.com