A person intentionally blocks a doorway to hinder people from leaving during a disturbance. What offense applies?

• A. Obstructing free passage
• B. Interfering with an officer
• C. Resisting arrest
• D. Disorderly conduct

Answer: (A)

Blocking a doorway to hinder people from leaving during a disturbance is obstructing free passage. The essential idea is purposely hindering the movement of others through a passage that should remain open for safe egress. A doorway is a critical exit point, especially in a disturbed or crowded situation, and when someone intentionally blocks it, they prevent others from exiting, which is exactly what this offense prohibits.

Interfering with an officer would involve actions aimed at or affecting a police officer in the course of their duties. Resisting arrest requires actively opposing law enforcement during an arrest. Disorderly conduct covers disruptive or unruly behavior that disturbs the peace, but the specific, defining act here is the deliberate obstruction of an exit path, which is why obstructing free passage is the most precise match.