A Portsmouth couple is now facing the very real possibility of decades in prison after a Scioto County Grand Jury handed down indictments stemming from a multi-agency child exploitation investigation.
Grand Jury Indictments
The grand jury indicted:
Gerald O’Hara, 43, of Portsmouth, on:
- Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (4 counts)
Beverly O’Hara, 38, of Portsmouth, on:
- Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor or Impaired Person (4 counts)
Each count represents a serious felony offense under Ohio law, carrying the potential for lengthy prison sentences if convictions are secured.
How the Case Unfolded
According to investigators, the case began with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, which alerted the Portsmouth Police Department after receiving information that child sexual assault material was being distributed online using phone numbers allegedly connected to the O’Haras.
On December 4, 2025, Portsmouth detectives executed a search warrant at the couple’s residence on 20th Street. Both Gerald and Beverly O’Hara were taken into custody during that operation.
A Multi-Agency Effort
Cases like this typically involve coordination between:
- Local police departments
- State investigators
- Federal and regional ICAC partners
Authorities say these investigations are often lengthy and highly technical, relying on digital evidence, online tracing, and forensic analysis.
What These Charges Mean
“Pandering Sexually-Oriented Matter Involving a Minor” is among the most serious offenses in Ohio’s criminal code. Convictions can result in:
- Long-term prison sentences
- Mandatory sex offender registration
- Severe restrictions for life, even after release
As with all criminal cases, both defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
What Happens Next
With the indictments now filed, the case moves fully into the Common Pleas Court system, where pretrial hearings, motions, and—potentially—a jury trial will follow.
For now, the indictments mark a major step forward in a case that prosecutors say involves some of the most serious allegations the justice system handles.