What begins as a seemingly minor criminal offense in Missouri can quickly snowball into a much more serious legal situation. A traffic stop, a misunderstanding, or a lapse in judgment may start with a citation or misdemeanor — but if resisting arrest or additional ancillary charges are added to the mix, the legal consequences can become severe.
How Charges Can Escalate in Missouri
In Missouri, it is not uncommon for defendants to face multiple charges stemming from a single incident. A simple charge — such as possession of marijuana, trespassing, or even a traffic violation — can suddenly escalate if a person is accused of:
- Resisting or interfering with arrest
- Obstruction of justice
- Assault on a law enforcement officer
- Failure to comply with lawful commands
- Disorderly conduct or disturbing the peace
Let’s say someone is pulled over for suspicion of driving without insurance. That alone may only result in a citation and fine. However, if that person becomes agitated, pulls away from the officer, or verbally refuses to cooperate, they could be charged with resisting arrest, which in Missouri is a Class A misdemeanor — and in some cases, a felony.
What Is Considered “Resisting Arrest” in Missouri?
Under Missouri law (RSMo § 575.150), resisting arrest involves knowing you are being arrested and attempting to prevent the arrest by:
- Fleeing from the officer
- Threatening or using violence
- Refusing to be handcuffed or transported
- Physically struggling or interfering with the officer’s actions
It’s important to note: Even if the original charge is later dropped or found to be baseless, a resisting arrest charge can still stand on its own. This is one of the most frustrating realities defendants face — especially if emotions ran high during the encounter or there was confusion about the officer’s commands.
The Chain Reaction of Ancillary Charges
Once resisting arrest is on the table, other related charges can follow. If there’s physical contact with an officer, a simple scuffle may lead to assault charges. If the encounter disrupts a public space, disturbing the peace or disorderly conduct might be added. Prosecutors often use these charges to strengthen their case or increase pressure during plea negotiations.
Why This Matters
Ancillary charges like resisting arrest are not only serious on their own, but they also:
- Increase potential jail time and fines
- Complicate plea negotiations
- Make it more difficult to get charges dropped or reduced
- Tarnish a defendant’s record with violent or obstructive conduct
In short, these charges can transform a manageable legal problem into a complex, high-stakes criminal defense matter.
Protect Your Future — Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges that have spiraled due to resisting arrest or related offenses, it’s critical to speak with an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. At Rogers Sevastianos & Bante, we understand how quickly things can escalate and how overwhelming the justice system can feel. Our team will review the facts, fight to protect your rights, and work to minimize or eliminate the long-term consequences of these charges.
Don’t let a minor incident define your future. Reach out today for a confidential consultation.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique, and you should consult an attorney for personalized guidance on your specific circumstances.