Sports rivalry games can become aggressive with both on-field animosity and ribald antics in the stands. In what should have been considered a harmless prank, a Florida man now faces a legal nightmare following the recent New England Patriots versus Buffalo Bills Monday Night Football matchup in New York. Michael Abdallah has been arrested for disorderly conduct – creating a hazardous/offensive condition – after allegedly throwing an object onto the field during the game.
Since 2016, Bills fans have built a tradition of throwing sex toys onto New Era Field each time the Patriots visit Buffalo. Stadium officials do not condone this practice, and have banned two fans for life. During the October 29, 2018, matchup, numerous rubber toys were thrown onto the field. Mr. Abdallah, however, was singled out and arrested.
In what many consider a waste of both police and stadium resources, Mr. Abdallah was allegedly identified by combing through eyewitness accounts and in-stadium video surveillance footage. Mr. Abdallah was arrested by the Erie County Sherriff’s Office and charged with disorderly conduct.
Facing the criminal justice system without an aggressive defender on your side can be an intimidating experience. Individuals might face severe penalties that could dramatically impact housing or work opportunities in the future. No matter the severity of your charge, discuss your case with a skilled criminal defense firm as soon as possible.