Bridgeport Disorderly Conduct Arrests

While avoiding Bridgeport disorderly conduct arrests is preferable, defending yourself against the resulting charges is essential to protecting your future. If you’ve been arrested for disorderly conduct in Bridgeport, contact a top criminal lawyer as quickly as possible to begin working towards a favorable outcome.

What Constitutes Disorderly Conduct in Bridgeport?

Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) § 53a-182 sets forth the different behaviors that may result in disorderly conduct charges. This broad offense encompasses a variety of actions that would reasonably annoy or alarm the average person.

Disorderly conduct involves intentional or reckless conduct that creates a risk of bothering or disrupting others. Even unintended behaviors might rise to the level of disorderly conduct if the individuals were reckless in causing the risk of annoyance to others. This section details some more specific actions that also may qualify as disorderly conduct, including:

Fighting outside a bar
Threatening others with violence in a public place
Congregating on a sidewalk so that pedestrians are unable to pass by
Loudly disturbing or disrupting a public meeting

Can I Be Arrested for Protesting or Trespassing?

Participating in a protest or demonstration also can lead to Bridgeport arrests for disorderly conduct if police order individuals to leave a public area, and they fail to do so. Another example of disorderly conduct occurs when persons trespass onto the property of others to view them inside their homes without their consent. Due to the breadth of the disorderly conduct statute, many other types of activity could result in disorderly conduct charges, as well.

What Are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Bridgeport?

A disorderly conduct charge is a Class C misdemeanor offense under state law. The potential penalties for a conviction on disorderly conduct charges can include three months in jail, probation, and a $500 fine. Probation can be costly, requiring monthly payments, and the court may order restitution in some cases, such as if the disorderly conduct resulted in injuries to others or property damage.

Are There Other Consequences to a Conviction?

If the disorderly conduct arises from a domestic violence incident, the individuals could face additional penalties, as well. The alleged victim likely will seek an order of protection that eliminates all contact between the parties to the dispute. The impact of an order of protection is likely to be significant.

Additionally, when a disorderly conduct conviction shows up on a criminal background check by prospective employers, college or graduate schools admissions offices, or landlords, the results can be damaging. Individuals can face severe consequences for their reputations that may follow them for years. A conviction may prevent individuals from pursuing some career paths and obtaining better housing options.

Handling Arrests for Disorderly Conduct in Bridgeport