Under Ohio law, what criterion defines the offense of Bribery?

Bribery, as defined under Ohio law, involves the act of exchanging goods or services for the performance of official duties. This means that when an individual offers, gives, or receives something of value with the intent to influence the actions of a public official in their official capacity, it constitutes bribery. This criterion emphasizes the illicit exchange and the intention to corruptly influence the official's decisions or actions, which is a core element of bribery offenses.

The focus on the exchange of goods or services for official duties highlights the illegal aspect of trying to sway or control the actions of someone in a position of authority, thereby undermining the integrity of public service. Bribery is taken very seriously as it poses a threat to the rule of law and public trust in governmental institutions.