With law enforcement promising a crack-down, it may be a good time to brush up on disorderly conduct and how to avoid getting arrested on Spring Break. You don’t go to Spring Break in Orlando or Daytona expecting to get hauled in for assault charges, sex crimes, shoplifting, or a DUI. But those are the kinds of charges that keep law enforcement busy when thousands of young people come to town to party and blow off steam. One common offense that Spring Breakers may find themselves facing is disorderly conduct.
Understanding Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct, also known as disturbing the peace or disorderly intoxication, is a broad criminal offense encompassing a range of behaviors that can disrupt public order. While the specific definition of disorderly conduct may vary from state to state, it generally includes actions such as public drunkenness, fighting, using abusive language, loitering, or engaging in other disruptive or offensive behavior. The charges are often subjective and depend on the interpretation of law enforcement officers and witnesses.
The Most Common Spring Break Offenses
During Spring Break, college students often engage in activities that can lead to public disorder charges. Here are some of the most common offenses committed by Spring Breakers:
Disorderly Intoxication
Spring Break is notorious for its parties and excessive alcohol consumption. However, when alcohol consumption goes beyond the limits of responsible behavior, it can result in public intoxication charges.
Fighting and Assault
The combination of alcohol, crowded venues, and heightened emotions can sometimes lead to altercations and fights. Engaging in physical altercations, whether it’s a simple scuffle or a more serious assault, can result in disorderly intoxication charges and potential assault charges, depending on the severity of the incident.
Disturbing the Peace
Excessive noise, rowdy behavior, and causing a disturbance can all fall under the umbrella of public order crimes. Spring Break destinations often see an influx of loud parties, music, and boisterous crowds. However, if your behavior crosses the line and disrupts the peace of others, you may find yourself facing public disorder charges.
Drug Possession
Another common offense committed during Spring Break is drug possession. The use and distribution of illegal substances can result in serious legal consequences. It’s important to be aware of the laws regarding drug possession in the area you are visiting and to avoid engaging in any illegal activities.
Trespassing
Exploring restricted or private areas, such as closed-off properties or unauthorized access to hotel or resort facilities, can lead to trespassing charges. These charges can escalate if your behavior while trespassing is disruptive or offensive.
Consequences of Disorderly Conduct Charges
Being charged with public order crimes during Spring Break can have serious consequences that extend beyond the immediate legal implications. Here are some potential consequences of public disorder charges:
- Criminal Record
A conviction can leave a permanent mark on your criminal record. This can have long-term consequences, impacting your educational and career opportunities. Future employers and educational institutions may view a conviction as evidence of poor judgment and hesitate to grant you admission or employment. - Fines and Penalties
These charges often carry financial penalties. The specific fines and penalties vary depending on the state and the circumstances of the offense. In some cases, a disorderly conduct conviction can result in hefty fines that can strain your finances. - Probation
In addition to fines, a public disorder conviction may also result in probation. Probation typically involves regular check-ins with a probation officer, adherence to specific conditions, and restrictions on your activities. Violating the terms of probation can lead to further legal consequences. - Community Service
In some cases, a court may order community service as part of the sentencing for a public disorder conviction. This can involve dedicating a significant amount of time to community organizations or performing specific tasks for the benefit of the community. - Impact on Immigration Status
For international students studying in the United States, a conviction can severely affect their immigration status. The conviction may lead to visa revocation or denial of future visa applications.
A skilled and aggressive criminal defense attorney can present many defenses to get disorderly conduct charges dropped. A thorough investigation of the circumstances may reveal weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case. The state has to prove that you were intoxicated, which can be a subjective judgment. Did the incident take place in a public space? Was there a disturbance? Did your actions really endanger anyone’s safety?
Thousands of people are being held back in their lives and careers because of a criminal record. Even if you’ve made a mistake, there’s no reason to surrender your rights and accept a conviction without a fight. Call 407-644-2466 and talk to an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney at the Rivas Law Firm.
