What classification applies to the refusal to disperse when ordered by a public officer?

The classification that applies to the refusal to disperse when ordered by a public officer is a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is typically considered a less severe offense than a felony but more serious than an infraction. In the context of public safety, when an individual refuses a lawful order to disperse, it often poses a potential risk to public order and safety, justifying this classification as a misdemeanor.

This behavior can undermine law enforcement efforts and create dangerous situations, especially in scenarios involving crowds or emergencies. The law provides this classification to ensure that there are appropriate legal consequences for actions that threaten the peace.

While infractions are usually minor violations with very light penalties, and felonies are serious crimes with severe consequences, the act of refusing to comply with a lawful order from a public officer necessitates a stronger response, which is why it falls into the category of a misdemeanor. Violations may refer to a range of offenses but typically do not align with the severity required for a refusal to disperse in this context. Thus, classifying refusal to disperse as a misdemeanor is aligned with the need to maintain public order and compliance with lawful authority.