A large part of the role of police officers is to maintain the peace. The public has a right to go about their day without feeling threatened or disturbed. This includes in public places, such as restaurants and bars.
Consequently, the state of Missouri has legislation in place that prevents disorderly conduct. But what exactly is disorderly conduct?
Drunk and disorderly conduct
Many disorderly conduct cases stem from the use of alcohol. Alcohol can change a person’s temperament, impair their judgment and cause them to act in ways that they otherwise wouldn’t. For the most part, this is all fun and games but some people may take it too far.
It is a criminal offense to cause individuals in public spaces to feel threatened and alarmed. There are also certain locations where it is not permitted to drink alcohol and be intoxicated. For example, in court rooms or places of worship.
Disorderly gatherings
Everyone in the U.S. has a right to express their opinions and protest. However, there are certain conditions. Protests are not allowed to be violent or cause significant distress to members of the public. Anyone involved in violent or disruptive protests could face disorderly conduct charges.
Disorderly conduct laws may also apply to disrupting religious ceremonies, vandalizing property and threatening someone on a private property. The key elements of the crime are causing others to feel threatened, alarmed and disturbed.
It is common to believe that disorderly conduct charges aren’t serious, but they are. A conviction could result in fines and even jail time, depending on the circumstances. Therefore, it’s often vital to seek further legal information if you’re facing charges of this nature.