Common Criminal Charges at Michigan Festivals

Michigan law enforcement agencies often increase patrols and surveillance during festivals. For good reason—hundreds or thousands of attendees packed into small areas lead to an uptick in illegal or dangerous behavior. Here are some of the most common criminal charges seen at outdoor events:

• Drug Possession
• Public Intoxication / Disorderly Conduct
• Assault and Battery
• Minor in Possession of Alcohol (MIP)
• Open Intoxicants in a Vehicle

Each of these charges can carry serious consequences, even for a first-time offender. Let’s dig into the specifics of each one—and what to do if you find yourself being charged.

Drug Possession at Michigan Festivals

Movement Festival in Detroit and similar electronic music events are often known hotspots for recreational drug use. From marijuana (still illegal to use outside of designated private spaces) to ecstasy (MDMA), LSD, and cocaine—festival arrests for drug possession are common.

What the Law Says

Under MCL 333.7403, it is illegal to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription. Substances are classified according to schedule levels. Some examples include:

• Schedule I: Ecstasy, LSD, heroin
• Schedule II: Cocaine, Adderall (without a prescription)
• Schedule III - V: Less addictive medications, often with lower penalties

Possible Penalties

Depending on the type and amount of drug involved, penalties range from a misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail (e.g., small possession of Schedule V drugs) to a felony with up to 10 years or more in prison.

Defenses

Common defenses to drug possession include:

• Lack of knowledge — you did not knowingly possess the substance
• Illegal search and seizure — if the police didn’t follow the rules when searching you or your property
• The substance wasn’t illegal — sometimes substances are mistaken for drugs

A conviction for even a small amount of a controlled substance can affect your ability to get jobs, housing, or student loans.

Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct

Festivals often involve alcohol, and while having a good time is part of the experience, too much fun can sometimes lead to criminal charges. In Michigan, public intoxication itself isn’t a standalone crime, but if your behavior becomes disorderly or disturbing to others, that’s where the legal trouble begins.

Disorderly Conduct in Michigan

Under MCL 750.167, a person can be charged with disorderly conduct if they are:

• Drunk in public and endangering themselves or others
• Engaging in violent or threatening behavior
• Loitering or disturbing the peace

Penalties

Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $500 fine. More importantly, it leaves a permanent mark on your criminal record.

Festival Examples

Whether it’s arguing with a vendor, being overly rowdy in a crowd, or stumbling drunk into restricted areas, these are all behaviors that could trigger police involvement—even if you didn’t mean harm. Your best defense is prevention: keep your behavior in check, look out for friends, and know your limits.

Assault and Battery Charges

Tempers can flare when large crowds mix with heat, alcohol, and tight space. A push, a thrown drink, or a yelling match can quickly become a criminal charge for assault and battery.

What is Assault and Battery?

There are technically two separate actions:

• Assault occurs when someone attempts to cause harm or puts someone in fear of harm.
• Battery is the actual physical contact or harm.

You don’t need to have thrown a punch to be charged with assault.

Types of Assault in Michigan

• Simple Assault: A misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail
• Aggravated Assault: Injury requiring medical attention; up to 1 year in jail
• Felonious Assault: Involving a weapon or intent to cause great bodily harm

Defenses to Assault

There are valid legal defenses such as:

• You acted in self-defense
• The other party instigated the violence
• There was mutual consent (e.g., a fight where both parties agreed)

There’s a huge difference between a police warning and a permanent record, so if you’re charged with assault—even something minor—take it seriously.

Other Festival-Related Offenses

1. Minor in Possession of Alcohol (MIP)

MCL 436.1703 makes it illegal for anyone under 21 to possess, consume, or transport alcohol. The penalties include fines, community service, and mandatory substance abuse education. Though recent updates to the law have made first-offense MIP a civil infraction, repeat violations can carry misdemeanor penalties and possible jail time.

2. Open Intoxicants in a Vehicle

If you’re heading to or from a festival and have an open container of alcohol in your car—even as a passenger—you can be charged under MCL 257.624a. It’s a misdemeanor charge and can result in fines and points on your driving record. It's one of those technical violations that can sneak up on you if you're not careful.

How to Avoid a Criminal Record During Festival Season

The best defense is a good offense—meaning know how to protect yourself before you ever have to face charges. Here are some ways you can avoid legal trouble while still enjoying the celebrations:

• Know your rights when interacting with law enforcement
• Don’t carry drugs or paraphernalia, even small amounts
• Appoint a designated driver or use rideshare services
• If drinking, stay in designated areas and remain respectful of others
• Avoid conflict—walk away if tensions rise

If you’re under 21, don’t try to sneak alcohol in. And if you’re over 21, make sure you’re not providing it to minors, which is also a chargeable offense.

What to Do If You’re Charged

If you are arrested or cited during a festival, the most important thing you can do is stay calm and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. Criminal records in Michigan—even misdemeanors—can show up on background checks and affect employment, housing, and even immigration status.

Attorney Aaron J. Boria has successfully defended hundreds of clients facing charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. Whether it’s fighting the charges outright or obtaining a dismissal or deferral program (such as HYTA for minors), we’ll do everything possible to protect your future.

If you're facing charges from a Michigan festival, we’re here to help.

Call us today at (734) 453-7806 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, discuss your rights, and start crafting a defense strategy immediately.

Conclusion

Festival season is meant to be a time of celebration, connection, and joy. But when the music ends and the beer tents close, nobody wants to be heading home with a criminal record. By knowing the law, staying alert, and making wise choices, you can avoid legal trouble while still having a memorable time this summer.

And if something does happen, remember this: one mistake doesn’t have to define you. At Boria Law, we treat every client like a person—not a case number. We fight hard, we listen, and we get results.

Call (734) 453-7806 today. We’re standing by to help you move forward the right way.