Generally, yes. Ohio doesnt have a separate “Romeo and Juliet” statute, but the unlawful sexual conduct with a minor statute does not apply to juvenile offenders (those under 18). Accordingly, if a 15 and 17-year-old engage in consensual sexual conduct, this is not statutory rape in Ohio.

Can a 18 year old be with a 16 year old?

While in many circumstances it is perfectly legal for an adult to have consensual sexual contact or intercourse with a 16-year-old, there are some circumstances where it is not. Most often, it comes down to the nature of the relationship between the two individuals.