Which of the following describes a breach of the peace?

• A. A mere verbal dispute.
• B. A breach of the peace requires physical injury.
• C. It only applies in private places.
• D. Harm or likely harm to a person or their property, or fear of harm due to an assault, affray, riot or disturbance.

Answer: (D)

A breach of the peace covers situations where there is harm or a credible danger of harm to a person or their property, or where there is fear of harm caused by acts such as an assault, affray, riot, or disturbance. It’s not limited to actual injuries; the key is the potential for harm and the resulting fear or disturbance to others.

That’s why the best description includes harm or likely harm, or fear of harm connected to violent or disruptive behavior—this captures both actual danger and the public alarm that police aim to prevent.

Verbal disputes don’t automatically amount to a breach unless they lead to threats or fear of violence. Requiring physical injury is too narrow since breaches can occur without injuries, simply through the threat or risk of harm. And breaches aren’t confined to private places; they can occur in public when they disturb the peace or cause fear.