Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed July 20, 2018
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Most states have laws that are meant to keep the peace in public. These types of laws prohibit a range of activities including disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication. In Indiana, the "Offenses Against Public Order" title of state's criminal code covers three Indiana public safety violations with specific laws on rioting and flag desecration, in addition to disorderly conduct. Indiana also has a related statute in its "Alcohol and Tobacco" title that prohibits being intoxicated in a way that's disruptive to the public.
There's no question that reading the actual language of the law is an important part of legal research. But since laws are usually written in legal jargon, it can be equally important to read an overview of the law in plain English. The table below provides an overview of disorderly conduct laws in Indiana as well as links to relevant statutes.
| Statute(s) | Indiana Code
|
| Disorderly Conduct | Disorderly conduct occurs when a person knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly:
*Conduct is tumultuous if it's likely to result in serious bodily injury or substantial damage to property. |
| Public Intoxication | Public intoxication is a crime if the intoxicated person:
|
| Charges | Disorderly conduct is generally a Class B misdemeanor. However, it becomes a Level 6 felony if the conduct occurs:
Public intoxication is a Class B misdemeanor. *The offender must know that a funeral procession is taking place for this to apply. |
| Penalties | A Class B misdemeanor is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. A Level 6 felony is punishable by imprisonment for six months to two and a half years and a fine of up to $10,000. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
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Disorderly conduct in Indiana can include fighting, public intoxication, and more. If you've been arrested for violating Indiana disorderly conduct laws, it's a good idea to contact a skilled local criminal defense attorney who will look at the facts in your case and help you make a game plan going forward so you can achieve the best possible outcome.
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