Seaside Heights Disorderly Conduct Offense
Contents
Seaside Heights Disorderly Conduct Offenses
Seaside Heights, New Jersey is a popular summer vacation destination located on the Jersey Shore. The town is known for its beaches, boardwalk, arcades and amusement rides. However, with lots of tourists comes increased incidents of disorderly conduct. This article will provide an overview of disorderly conduct laws in Seaside Heights and typical penalties if convicted.
What Constitutes Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct is a broad term that covers a wide range of behaviors that are considered disruptive to the public peace. According to the Seaside Heights municipal code, disorderly conduct includes:
- Fighting, violent or threatening behavior
- Unreasonable noise including loud music or yelling
- Obscene language or gestures
- Reckless behavior that risks injury to oneself or others
- Public intoxication and drunkenness
- Loitering in public areas after being told to leave
- Disturbing the peace in any way that causes public inconvenience
Some specific examples of disorderly conduct seen in Seaside Heights include public urination, public intoxication, fighting on the boardwalk, blasting loud music from cars or rental properties, using fireworks, and any behavior that draws a large disruptive crowd. The key is that the conduct must be in public view – if done in private, it would not constitute disorderly conduct.
Penalties for Disorderly Conduct Conviction
In Seaside Heights, disorderly conduct is classified as a “petty disorderly persons offense.” This is a minor criminal charge but still carries penalties if convicted. Possible penalties include:
- Up to 30 days in jail
- Fines up to $500
- Community service
- Probation
For minor first-time offenses, community service or fines are common. But penalties escalate for repeat offenders. Jail time is possible for fights resulting in injury, chronic public intoxication, or resisting arrest. Fines up to the $500 maximum are common as well.
Defenses Against Disorderly Conduct Charges
There are several legal defenses if charged with disorderly conduct in Seaside Heights:
- Free Speech – Disorderly conduct laws cannot infringe on free speech rights. So language or gestures that are obscene but not dangerous cannot be prosecuted.
- Misidentification – If evidence shows the defendant was not the actual person being disorderly, then they should be found not guilty.
- No Public Inconvenience – If the conduct did not actually disturb others or cause a dangerous situation, it may not qualify as disorderly.
- Self-Defense – Fighting or threatening behavior in self defense may be excused if it was a reasonable response to a threat.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate the details of the case and determine if any of these defenses apply. They may be able to get charges reduced or dismissed through negotiations with the prosecutor as well.
Avoiding Disorderly Conduct Charges
The best way to avoid disorderly conduct charges in Seaside Heights is simple – don’t act disorderly! Follow these tips for staying out of trouble:
- Avoid excessive drinking in public places
- Don’t yell, scream, or play loud music late at night
- Don’t urinate or vomit in public
- Follow police orders to disperse from crowded areas
- Don’t start fights or engage with hostile people
- Be respectful of residents, tourists, and local businesses
Basically, being responsible, respectful, and not disturbing the peace will go a long way towards avoiding disorderly conduct charges. But if cited, take it seriously and consult an attorney to protect your rights.
Conclusion
Disorderly conduct covers a wide range of disruptive behaviors in Seaside Heights. Typical penalties include fines, community service and possible jail time. There are legal defenses available in some cases. The best policy is being responsible and not disturbing the public peace. But if charged, consulting an experienced attorney is highly recommended.
Sources:
https://www.njcourts.gov/forms/11914_penalties_petty_disorderly_summary.pdf
https://www.njlaws.com/disorderly_conduct.html
https://www.avvo.com/legal-guides/ugc/how-to-avoid-a-disorderly-conduct-charge-in-new-jersey