Select your state

Criminal charges

rioting

Rioting or participating in a riot generally means the assembly of multiple persons resulting in conduct that (1) creates an immediate danger of damage to property or injury to persons; (2) substantially obstructs law enforcement or other governmental functions or services; (3) is tumultuous or violent and likely to cause public alarm; or (4) deprives any person of a legal right or disturbs any person in the enjoyment of a legal right by using force or the threat of force.

Rioting laws vary from state to state and some states have related offenses such as inciting a riot, unlawful assembly, failing to disperse, and disturbing the peace. These laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Montana, rioting and related offenses are addressed under the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). According to MCA Section 45-8-101, a person commits the offense of riot if they knowingly participate in an assemblage of six or more persons, which results in conduct creating an immediate danger of damage to property or injury to persons, substantially obstructs law enforcement or other governmental functions, or by tumultuous or violent conduct creates grave danger of causing public alarm. The offense of inciting a riot is covered under MCA Section 45-8-102, where a person is prohibited from purposely or knowingly advocating or urging others to engage in a riot. Other related offenses include 'unlawful assembly' and 'failure to disperse,' which are also defined in the Montana Code. These laws are part of the state's penal or criminal code and are enforced by state and local law enforcement agencies. Penalties for rioting and related offenses can include fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the incident.


Legal Services from Local Law Firm for Less than 99¢ a Day

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Articles


Montana State Code