If someone exhibits a deadly weapon in public, what class is that offense?

The offense of exhibiting a deadly weapon in public is classified as a Class B misdemeanor. This classification is established under laws addressing the unlawful display of a weapon in a manner that could cause alarm or panic among the public, as well as the potential for threatening behavior.

Exhibiting a deadly weapon in a public setting creates concerns for public safety, and the law seeks to regulate the presence of potentially dangerous items to mitigate risks to individuals around the person displaying the weapon. Class B misdemeanors typically carry a maximum punishment of up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000, which reflects the seriousness of the behavior without elevating it to more severe felony offenses unless there are aggravating factors or additional laws that apply.

This contrasts with other classifications, such as Class A misdemeanors, which generally involve more severe penalties and often apply to offenses that present a higher level of harm or intent. The felony classifications represent much more serious crimes that involve significant threats to public safety or significant injury, which do not align with the typical context for merely exhibiting a deadly weapon without further criminal activity involved.