Is It Against The Law To Flip Off A Cop Or Anyone Else?
How often have you ever wanted to flip someone the bird in traffic or someone who has just pissed you off? I can honestly say I have wanted to do it many times but I don't think I actually have. I know there are a lot of who find it hilarious to flip off a cop just because they have a problem with law enforcement but can it get you in trouble?
Many will tell that you can do whatever you want because of your right to freedom of speech but that may not be the case. Even though you may think it's innocent it could be considered disorderly conduct.
What is disorderly conduct?
According to Penal Code Title Nine Chapter 42, disorderly conduct can be described as:
Sec. 42.01. DISORDERLY CONDUCT. (a) A person commits an offense if he intentionally or knowingly:
(1) uses abusive, indecent, profane, or vulgar language in a public place, and the language by its very utterance tends to incite an immediate breach of the peace;
(2) makes an offensive gesture or display in a public place, and the gesture or display tends to incite an immediate breach of the peace
What would be the punishment?
Most disorderly conduct charges are Class C misdemeanors and are punishable by a fine of up to $500. But as you know there can always be extenuating circumstances.
I recently read that the thing you should do instead of flipping someone the bird is to give them a thumbs down. The reason to give someone a thumbs down is because it doesn't show a sign of anger but a sign of disappointment. By causing someone to feel disappointed a person may reflect upon their action instead of acting out in anger. Ever since I read that I have wanted to give so many people a thumbs down.
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