TCA 39-17-313
Aggressive panhandling
MISDEMEANOR CClass C Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
Aggressive panhandling is asking someone for money or goods in an aggressive, threatening, or physically invasive way—such as touching them without permission, blocking their path, following them after they've walked away, or making threats that would scare a reasonable person into giving money. A first offense is a Class C misdemeanor with up to 30 days in jail and a $50 fine; a second or later offense becomes a Class B misdemeanor with up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine.
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass C Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail30 days
Maximum Fine$50
Penalty SummaryClass C misdemeanor; 30 days; fine up to $50
Enhancement NotesMultiple classifications: Class C misdemeanor, Class B misdemeanor
(a) A person commits aggressive panhandling who solicits a donation of money or goods in the following manner: (1) By intentionally touching the person being solicited without the person’s consent; (2) By intentionally obstructing the path of the person, or of the vehicle of the person, being solicited; (3) By following a person who is walking away from the person soliciting the donation, unless that person has indicated that the person wishes to make a donation; or (4) By making any statement, gesture, or other communication that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear of personal harm for refusing a solicitation of a donation. (b) (1) A first violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. (2) A second or subsequent violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by fine or a term of imprisonment not to exceed ninety (90) days, or both.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR C
TCA Section39-17-313
Max Jail30 days
Max Fine$50
Recent Bookings4+
Geographic Distribution
Shelby2
Knox1
Fayette1