Disorderly Conduct Charges Defense in Atlantic City Casinos
Visiting a casino in Atlantic City is a favorite activity for many New Jersey residents. Casinos serve alcohol, so there is some expectation of rowdiness and unruly behavior. Still, a person can be arrested for disorderly conduct in a New Jersey casino. Melissa Rosenblum offers experienced criminal defense services to protect your rights.
Disorderly conduct is defined as “conduct that disturbs the peace, morals, or safety of the general public.” In short, it refers to behavior that causes others to become annoyed, alarmed, inconvenienced, offended, or injured. In New Jersey, disorderly conduct is outlined in N.J. Stat. § 2C:33-2 and classified as a petty disorderly persons offense, a low-level criminal charge.
A conviction of disorderly conduct results in a criminal record, which can impact employment, housing, immigration, and background checks. The punishment also includes up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. A disorderly person offense can result in up to six months in prison and a fine of up to $1,000.
Examples of Disorderly Conduct in a Casino
A casino lends itself to a high-energy, high-stakes environment that can lead to tension and heightened emotions. Here are some examples of disorderly conduct in a casino environment:
- Gambling disputes. Gambling disputes can lead to physical altercations. For example, a patron may punch or shove another person after losing a bet or claiming they were cheated at a table game. Even yelling aggressively or attempting to provoke a physical altercation can qualify as disorderly conduct.
- Drunken, disruptive behavior. This may include intoxicated patrons yelling, stumbling on the floor, or knocking over machines or furniture. It may also involve being loud or vulgar in ways that alarm or annoy others, especially if they ignore staff instructions.
- Yelling obscenities at staff or other patrons. Shouting profanities after losing money or arguing with a dealer or security guard can lead to a disorderly conduct charge. So can the use of offensive language, especially if it’s considered “unreasonably loud” and meant to offend.
- Public indecency or lewd acts. Acts like public urination, exposing oneself, or engaging in sexual conduct in public restrooms or hotel hallways are often prosecuted as disorderly conduct, especially in a public place like a casino.
- Refusing to leave when asked. If someone is ejected from the casino for violating policy (based on their behavior or dress code) and refuses to comply, this can escalate to disorderly conduct or even trespassing.
- Recording or streaming illegally. Filming the gaming floor or live streaming in restricted areas can lead to disputes with security. If a person becomes aggressive or refuses to stop, it may turn into a criminal offense.
We Understand Casino Crimes Defense
People go to a casino to celebrate and have fun, but you still need to be mindful of your actions. Being disruptive can result in being kicked out of the casino or even being arrested.
Casino crimes are a niche area of law, and they are not always easy to understand. The Law Offices of Melissa Rosenblum has experience helping Atlantic City residents who have been arrested for various casino crimes. Let us give you the right legal advice for a favorable outcome. To schedule a consultation, contact us via (609) 904-6262 or online here.