Each year, hundreds of people are arrested for disorderly conduct in Tampa, especially during the annual Gasparilla pirate festival. While this iconic event is known for fun, floats, and festivities, it also leads to an unfortunate spike in arrests for fighting, public disturbances, and alcohol-fueled incidents.
At Taracks & Associates, our experienced criminal defense lawyers have helped many clients fight charges stemming from Gasparilla weekend and other large public events. If you’ve been charged with disorderly conduct, it’s critical to understand the charge and what’s at stake.
What Is Disorderly Conduct Under Florida Law?
Florida Statute §877.03 defines disorderly conduct as:
“Whoever commits such acts as are of a nature to corrupt the public morals, outrage the sense of public decency, affect the peace and quiet of others, engage in brawling or fighting, or otherwise breach the peace shall be guilty of a second-degree misdemeanor.”
This vague statute gives law enforcement broad discretion—and during chaotic events like Gasparilla, many arrests occur even when no one was injured or seriously harmed.
What Are the Penalties?
Although disorderly conduct is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor, the consequences can still be serious:
- Up to 60 days in jail
- Fines up to $500
- Court costs and probation
- A permanent criminal record
Even if jail time is unlikely for a first-time offense, a conviction can negatively impact your employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing, and reputation. Employers may see this charge as a red flag for instability or poor judgment.
If alcohol was involved in your arrest, and especially if you’re under 21, you could also be dealing with related DUI or public intoxication concerns.
How an Attorney Can Help
The prosecution must prove that your behavior truly “breached the peace”—something that is often difficult in a crowded, high-energy environment. A skilled disorderly conduct defense lawyer may be able to argue:
- You were defending yourself in a brawl
- Your behavior did not rise to the level of a criminal offense
- There’s insufficient evidence to proceed
- You qualify for pre-trial diversion or dismissal
Our legal team includes three former prosecutors who know the strategies the State will use to build a case against you—and how to break them down.
If your arrest also involved a related charge such as domestic violence or drug possession, we’ll defend you on all fronts to mitigate penalties and protect your future.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney in Tampa Today
If you’ve been arrested for disorderly conduct during Gasparilla—or at any other event in the Tampa Bay area—don’t wait to get legal help. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better your chances of reducing the charge, negotiating a diversion program, or avoiding a conviction entirely.
Call Taracks & Associates at (813) 281-2897 for a free, confidential consultation with a proven Tampa criminal defense lawyer. Let us help you clear your name and move forward.