Extra Innings · Beanballs & Bleachers
A Chair Over the Rail
People v. Frank Francisco (2005)
Charge: Misdemeanor assault - relief pitcher threw a folding chair from the bullpen into the stands, breaking a fan's noseCourt: Alameda County Superior CourtDocket: Beanballs & Bleachers
Is a pitcher criminally responsible for throwing a chair into the crowd after hecklers taunted his team's bullpen?
The facts
In September 2004, fans seated near the visiting bullpen at an Oakland ballpark were heckling the visiting team's relievers. A shouting match broke out between players and fans. A visiting relief pitcher picked up a chair and threw it into the stands. The chair struck a 42-year-old woman in the face and broke her nose. Another fan was also struck.
You have the facts the court had. Guilty or not guilty? Call it in the game with your friends, then see what the court actually decided. Wrong call, you drink.
Citation: People v. Frank Francisco, Alameda County Superior Court (Oakland), June 2005 (no reported opinion)
Read more at sfgate.com. The source reveals the outcome.