Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers | May 7, 2025 | Miscellaneous

 Legal Implications of Fights and Altercations at Petco Park Events

Sports are a favorite pastime in our country. Fans adamantly defend and cheer their favorite teams. In San Diego, it includes the San Diego Padres. Petco Park is the home of the Padres. Millions of people attend games at Petco Park each year.

Most people enjoy good experiences when attending events and games at Petco Park. However, that is not the case for everyone. Fights and altercations at Petco Park events occasionally happen. It is essential to understand your rights if you are involved in an altercation or fight, including the legal implications of your actions.

Criminal Consequences for Fights and Altercations at Petco Park Events

Everyone entering Petco Park for baseball games and other events agrees to abide by the stadium’s Code of Conduct. The San Diego Padres have a zero-tolerance policy regarding guests who violate the Code of Conduct.

Therefore, you could be removed from the premises if you were to get into a fight or altercation. The policy also includes using foul or abusive language, obscene gestures, and vulgar, inconsiderate, or inappropriate behavior. If you refuse to leave the park, you may be arrested for trespassing.

Assaults and fights can also result in being banned from Petco Park. It can also result in one or more criminal charges. Depending on the circumstances, a person may face charges for assault and/or battery.

California Penal Code §240 defines assault as an unlawful attempt to violently injure someone. Battery is the unlawful and willful use of violence or force against someone. Assault and battery are usually misdemeanor offenses but may be upgraded to a felony offense in some situations, such as assault with a deadly weapon.

Disorderly conduct is another common criminal charge that could result from altercations at Petco Park. Fans may take cheering on their team too seriously or become intoxicated. Disrupting the peace and quiet of others could lead to criminal charges.

The penalties and consequences for fights and altercations at Petco Park depend on numerous factors, including, but not limited to:

  • The criminal offense
  • Whether you are charged with a felony or a misdemeanor
  • The age of the victim
  • Whether a weapon was used
  • Your criminal history
  • The presence of aggravating factors
  • The seriousness of the injuries

Fines and jail time are common penalties. However, you could also face probation, restitution, and other punishments. Collateral consequences could include suspension of a professional license, loss of child custody, and negative impacts on immigration status.

In addition to facing criminal charges, fights and altercations at Petco Park could result in civil lawsuits. If you injure someone, that person could sue you for damages. They may sue for negligence, intentional torts, or other grounds.

A civil lawsuit could result in a judgment for economic and non-economic damages. You may owe the person thousands of dollars. If you cause someone’s death or catastrophic injury, the judgment could be millions of dollars.

What Should I Do if I’m Involved in a Fight or Altercation at Petco Park?

Do not resist being removed from the park or being arrested. Resisting arrest or removal could escalate the situation and result in additional criminal charges.

If you are arrested, do not discuss the matter with the police other than providing your name and contact information. Respectfully inform the officers that you intend to exercise your right to remain silent except for requesting an attorney. Answering questions and making statements without an attorney present does not help your case.

How Can an Attorney Help You After an Arrest at Petco Park?

As soon as possible, contact a San Diego criminal defense lawyer for a free consultation. An attorney will:

  • Ensure you understand the charges filed against you
  • Explain your legal rights and your options for a defense
  • Gather and preserve evidence to build a defense against the charges
  • Investigate the circumstances that led to the charges to develop a defense strategy
  • Represent you during all court appearances and hearings
  • Work to negotiate a plea deal that helps avoid the worst consequences and may be the best option for resolving the charges

Do not discuss your charges or the situation with anyone, including family members and friends. Do not make statements to the press or answer questions. Avoid using social media until your case is resolved. The only person you need to communicate with about your charges is your attorney. 

Attempted murder is a serious offense in California, with severe penalties that can include a life sentence in state prison. Individuals facing attempted murder charges should seek immediate legal representation to explore possible defenses. Strong criminal defense representation can help protect your rights and freedom. 

Contact a San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers Today For Help

For more information, please contact the San Diego criminal defense attorneys at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers for a free consultation. Give us a call at (619) 357-4977, or visit our convenient location:

Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers San Diego
225 Broadway Suite 1740
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 357-4977
24/7