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What is NYC AC § 10-179?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the definition and penalties for disorderly behavior, which includes actions such as fighting, making unreasonable noise, and obstructing traffic. Violators may face criminal penalties including imprisonment or fines, as well as civil penalties recoverable through administrative hearings. Applies to individuals engaging in disruptive conduct in public spaces.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

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§ 10-179 Disorderly behavior.

AC § 10-179

a. Prohibition. A person is guilty of disorderly behavior when, with intent to cause public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly or with criminal negligence creating a risk thereof, such person: 1. Engages in fighting or in violent, tumultuous or threatening behavior; 2. Makes unreasonable noise; 3. In a public place, uses abusive or obscene language, or makes an obscene gesture; 4. Without lawful authority, disturbs any lawful assembly or meeting of persons; 5. Obstructs vehicular or pedestrian traffic; 6. Congregates with other persons in a public place and refuses to comply with a lawful order of the police to disperse; or 7. Creates a hazardous or physically offensive condition by any act which serves no legitimate purpose. b. Criminal penalty. The violation of subdivision a of this section constitutes an offense punishable by imprisonment of up to 5 days or a fine of up to 200 dollars. c. Civil penalty. Any person who violates subdivision a of this section shall be liable for a civil penalty of up to 75 dollars, which may be recoverable in a proceeding before the office of administrative trials and hearings, pursuant to chapter 45-A of the charter. (L.L. 2017/229, 12/1/2017, eff. 12/1/2017; Am. L.L. 2018/192, 12/1/2018, eff. 3/1/2019)

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