Violent disorder is a statutory offence in England and Wales. It is created by section 2(1) of the Public Order Act 1986. Sections 2(1) to (4) of that Act provide: "3 or more persons" See the following cases: "Violence" This word is defined by section 8.

Mens rea

For the mens rea, see section 6(2).

Indictment

As to particularisation, see R v Mahroof [1988], 88 Cr App R 317, CA.

Alternative verdict

See sections 7(3) and (4).

Arrest

Before 1 January 2006 this offence was classified as an arrestable offence by virtue of section 24(1)(b) of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984. See now sections 24 and 24A of that Act, as substituted by the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005.

Mode of trial and sentence

Violent disorder is triable either way. A person guilty of violent disorder is liable on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or to a fine, or to both, or, on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum, or to both. The following cases are relevant: