Legal Question in Criminal Law in Missouri

Re: Trespassing, Felony or Misdemeanor?

Trespass first offense is a class A misdemeanor or an infraction (akin to a parking ticket) depending on how it is charged. If a person receives actual notice to vacate from another who has possessory interest in the property and fails to vacate, it is a class A misdemeanor. This is normally charged in circuit court. If the trespass was simply going on posted property it is an ifraction. Class A misdemeanor is punishable by $1000 fine and year in jail. Normally, first offense you can get an SIS from the DA in Columbia. Was this a student at MU? Sounds like it. This is a common charge by the county DA there to curb frat parties at the hotels and motels. If the cops told the accused to leave it cannot be the basis for a class A misdemeanor. Notice has to come from a motel employee. Also, if the room renter has invited the accused into the room there may be a defense.