Do’s and Don’ts for Bonnaroo 2016

Bonnaroo is almost here!

Last year, more than 80,000 people attended the festival on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee, located in rural Coffee County. This year, 90,000 attendees are expected to be there. In addition to fans, reporters, and vendors, local and state law enforcement deputies and officers will stay on high alert and vigilant. Don’t give them a reason to issue a citation for a crime, arrest you, or seize your money, car or other property. Here is our list of “Do’s and Don’ts” for Bonnaroo patrons to follow and try to avoid being cited or charged with a crime.

DO find a designated driver

If you plan on leaving the festival grounds during your time at Bonnaroo, make sure you have a sober designated driver. Police throughout Coffee County will be on the lookout for drunk or drugged drivers to arrest. If you imbibe or get high, don’t drive.

DON’T buy alcohol for anyone but yourself

You can run into a world of trouble by purchasing alcohol for someone under the age of 21. We know that many people will go up to the various stands and kiosks and buy a round for everyone so that no one gets stuck in line all day. But unless you know – and know for certain – that the person you are buying for is 21 years of age or older, don’t do it.

DO carry a copy of your prescription

If you take medication, bring a copy of your prescription for it and the bottle or container for the prescription – no matter what it is. Without that information, you may be accused of possessing, using, or intending to distribute a controlled substance. So, have a copy of your scrip and the names and numbers of your doctor and your pharmacist handy.

DON’T behave aggressively towards or be rude to law enforcement

You can be cited for disorderly conduct, if law enforcement officers think you’re being rude to them, giving them lip, not obeying them fast enough, or if they believe that you have a bad “attitude.” If police ask you to clear out an area, be polite and do as they say. However, if they start to question you for any reason, you can call an attorney to help you.

DO seek out experienced legal counsel if you are ticketed or charged

The District Attorney of Coffee County, Craig Northcott, has changed the rules a bit about citations given to Bonnaroo attendees. The Tennessean reports “people who receive citations at Bonnaroo will be expected to make court appearances, hire attorneys and ‘deal with the consequences of illegal activities.’” If you are cited for any reason at all, call a lawyer immediately.

Have a great time at Bonnaroo this year. If, however, you are arrested, expect to stay at the Coffee County jail until you make bond or your case is heard. If you are cited or arrested, you will have to return to Coffee County, Tennessee to deal with the charges. By avoiding trouble, you save yourself time, money and distress.

The Law Office of Perry Craft, PLLC helps Bonnaroo attendees who have been cited or charged with a crime or had their property, vehicles or money seized. Call or text Nashville criminal defense attorney Perry Craft at 615.337.5464, or fill out our contact form for more information.