What is affray, why was Ben Stokes charged with it and what’s the sentence for it?
AFFRAY is a public order offence and type of disorderly conduct which is considered a breach of the peace.
Here we explain exactly what affray is and how long you could be sent to prison for if you're found guilty.
What is affray?
Affray is an offence that involves unlawful fighting or a display of force by at least one person against one or more people.
It is also the threat of violence, which is more than just verbal.
It is a common law offence and is triable by a judge and jury.
Affray may also be committed in private places as well as public areas.
Why was Ben Stokes charged with affray?
England cricket ace Ben Stokes was charged with affray following a brawl outside a Bristol nightclub.
The England all-rounder was allegedly involved in the scuffle in September 2017.
Stokes, 27, was charged alongside two other men and appeared for his preliminary hearing at Bristol Magistrates' Court on February 13, 2018, to plead not guilty.
On the morning of August 6, 2018, the cricketer appeared at Bristol Crown Court.
He was found not guilty after the jury accepted the defence's argument that he was coming to the aid of two gay men who were subjected to homophobic abuse.
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What sentence does affray carry in UK courts?
Affray is taken seriously in the British courts.
The maximum penalty for the offence is three years in prison.
The defendant can also be fined an unlimited amount.
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