Disturbance of the Peace

An offense constituting a malicious and willful intrusion upon the peace and quiet of a community or neighborhood.

The crime is usually committed by an offensive or tumultuous act, such as the making of loud or unusual noises, or quarreling in public.

The term is similar in meaning to breach of the peace, however, the latter is generally a broader term, encompassing all violations of public peace and order. It can also be a form of DISORDERLY CONDUCT and is similarly punishable upon conviction by a fine, imprisonment, or both.