COLUMBUS, Ohio — In June of 2022 Ohio became the 23rd state to allow citizens to carry a concealed weapon without a permit, thanks to the 'constitutional carry' law that is now in effect.
A study published by the Center for Justice Research shows that out of the eight largest cities in Ohio, six have seen a drop in violent gun offenses over the past year since the concealed carry law was in effect. The study was conducted by Bowling Green State University in partnership with the office for Ohio Attorney General David Yost.
Researchers analyzed data spanning from June 2021 to June 2023; a year prior and year post the permitless concealed carry law took effect. Crimes involving firearms, verified gunshot-detection alerts and the number of officers struck by gunfire were taken into account during the study.
The study showed a significant decrease in crimes involving firearms in Toledo, as the rate of gun crime fell 18% over the span of two years.
The rate of gun crime in Parma fell by 22%. Akron also decreased by 18%. Rates in Columbus, Cleveland and Canton all decreased, by 12%, 6% and 5% respectively.
Gun crime rates in Cincinatti and Dayton increased by 5% and 6%.
Two cities, Toledo and Columbus, implemented ShotSpotter or other gunshot detection technology. Data compiled showed a significant drop in verified crime incidents. Toledo dropped by 23.2% and Columbus by 20.6%.
When looking at how the permitless carry law impacted law enforcement, researching looked at the number of firearm related deaths and injuries of officers in all eight cities. The study concluded that there was no substantial change, as there were three incidents prior to the law taking effect and four incidents after.
A copy of the full study and findings can be viewed on the Ohio Attorney General's website.