Disorderly conduct laws are designed to protect people’s safety and ensure they can enjoy themselves in public places such as shopping malls, restaurants, and movie theaters. Each state has its own disorderly conduct laws, but it’s important to understand how Colorado defines this crime so you can avoid charges. Here are some of the ways you can be charged with disorderly conduct in Colorado:
Displaying or Discharging Firearms
Firing a gun in a public place is not only dangerous, but it will also lead to people panicking and fleeing for their lives. For this reason, discharging a firearm in a public place is considered disorderly conduct. But, you can be charged with disorderly conduct even if the weapon never fired. Someone who simply displays a weapon in a public place in order to alarm those around him can also face these charges.
Fighting
Getting into a physical fight with someone in public is also considered disorderly conduct. However, the penalties for engaging in a physical fight in public are not as severe as the penalties for discharging or displaying a firearm. This is a class 3 misdemeanor, whereas displaying or discharging a firearm is a class 2 misdemeanor.
Making Too Much Noise
If someone is disturbed by the amount of noise that you are making, it’s possible that you will be charged with disorderly conduct. The offense can take place either in a public place or near a private residence, which means a neighbor filing a noise complaint could lead to these charges.
Offensive Comments or Gestures
Many people are surprised to learn that making offensive comments or gestures in a public place can be illegal. The law states that the comments or gestures must “incite an immediate breach of the peace.” This means you will not be charged if you simply utter a curse word underneath your breath, but rather if the words or gestures you use alarm others or threaten their safety.
Disorderly conduct is not as serious as other crimes in Colorado. But, anyone who is convicted of disorderly conduct could face fines and jail time, so these criminal charges should not be taken lightly.
If you have been charged with disorderly conduct, contact Reisch Law Firm today. Our criminal defense attorneys stand by your side through every step of the legal process. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
