Rapper Jim Jones entered a plea to a reduced charge of Interfering with an Officer and was ordered to pay a $1,000.00 fine. The charges arose from a massive casino brawl in Connecticut this past February. The brawl broke out after a man started talking trash about Jones and physically attacked him. Jones fought back and a melee ensued. Police responded and it took five (5) officers to subdue Jones. Some news outlets are characterizing Jones' sentences as "a slap on the wrist." Charges of Breach of Peace and Inciting a Riot were dismissed as a part of the negotiation.
Jones was never charged with Battery in connection with this case. Perhaps, that was in recognition of the fact that he was acting in self-defense. Battery is considered a "violent crime" and is a serious charge that is punishable by up to six (6) months in jail. Since Las Vegas relies on its casino industry for much of its economy, police take these charges especially seriously if they occur in a casino or on the Strip. There are numerous defenses available to a person charged with Battery, of which self-defense is only one. Self-defense can be an effective defense to a charge of Battery if the person charged did not start the fight and was only defending himself against an attack.
If you or someone you know is facing Assault or Battery charges, it is important to call a knowledgeable and experienced Las Vegas criminal defense attorney right away. The Las Vegas Criminal Defense Lawyers at Brown Law Offices can assist by working with you to analyze of your case, identify applicable defenses, and develop the most aggressive strategy possible to protect your legal rights.