TCA 39-17-301
Part definitions
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What does this charge mean?
This statute does not describe an offense; it defines key terms used in riot and disorderly conduct laws. "Desecrate" means physically mistreating something in a way that would upset ordinary people. "Riot" means a disturbance with three or more people using violent conduct that creates serious danger of property damage or injury, or obstructs government functions. "Participates in a riot" includes joining the group, helping, or refusing police orders during a riot.
Penalty Details
ClassificationUnknown
Penalty SummaryClassification not specified
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) “Desecrate” means defacing, damaging, polluting or otherwise physically mistreating in a way that the person knows or should know will outrage the sensibilities of an ordinary individual likely to observe or discover the person’s action; (2) “Participates” includes: (A) Joining a group of three (3) or more persons who riot; (B) Aiding and abetting a riot; or (C) Refusing any lawful order of correctional personnel or other law enforcement officers during the course of a riot; (3) “Riot” means a disturbance in a public place or penal institution as defined in § 39-16-601 involving an assemblage of three (3) or more persons whether or not participating in any otherwise lawful activity, which, by tumultuous and violent conduct, creates grave danger of substantial damage to property or serious bodily injury to persons or substantially obstructs law enforcement or other governmental function; and (4) “Transportation facility” means any conveyance or place used for or in connection with public passenger transportation by air, railroad, motor vehicle or any other method. It includes, but is not limited to, aircraft, watercraft, railroad cars, buses, and air, boat, railroad and bus terminals and stations.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
PENDING
TCA Section39-17-301