Is Public Intoxication a Criminal Offense in Manassas?

Is Public Intoxication a Criminal Offense in Manassas?

Is Public Intoxication a criminal offense in Manassas?  Many people mistakenly think that a Manassas Public Intoxication charge is not a crime because it is not punished with jail time.  If you have been wondering, is Public Intoxication a criminal offense in Manassas, read the post below.

Public Intoxication Charge in Manassas

A Manassas Public Intoxication charge (Prince William County Code §16-14) criminalizes being intoxicated in public.  An offender can also be charged under the state Public Intoxication statute, Va. Code §18.2-388.

Intoxication can be caused by alcohol or drugs (even medication).  The term public is interpreted broadly and includes places open and visible to the public-including a person’s own property.

Is Public Intoxication a Criminal Offense in Manassas?

A Manassas Public Intoxication charge is a crime.  It is not punished with any jail time, but the accused can be taken to the local jail upon being charged with Public Intoxication and held until he has sobered up.

A Public Intoxication charge in Manassas is a Class 4 misdemeanor.  It is punished with a fine up to $250 and a prohibition on having a concealed carry permit for three years.  The fine can be pre-paid without having to go to court.  However, pre-paying the fine is admitting guilt to the offense and will result in a conviction on the offender’s permanent criminal record.  A conviction for a Manassas Public Intoxication charge can never be expunged.

For more information on a Manassas Public Intoxication charge, click here.

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