The Gang Gets Analyzed
Criminal Activities
Animal Cruelty
Intentionally killing a wild bird. Under U.S. law this can constitute animal cruelty under state statutes and may violate the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) (which prohibits taking/possessing/killing many migratory bird species without a permit).
Situation:
"Charlie reveals he has had a pigeon in his jacket and says he 'might have hugged him a little too hard, kind of smothered him a bit' and that the pigeon is now dead — indicating Charlie caused the pigeon's death."
Assault
Threatening another with imminent physical harm or displaying a weapon in a manner that puts others in reasonable fear of harm; in many jurisdictions brandishing a firearm or threatening violence is a criminal offense.
Situation:
"During the therapy session sequence the transcript includes the parenthetical '(Dennis choking)' while yelling and aggressive confrontation are occurring, indicating Dennis physically chokes someone (the therapist / another person) in the session."
Brandishing with a firearm
Displaying, brandishing, or using a firearm to threaten another person. Under U.S. law this can constitute brandishing or aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (statutory names and degrees vary by jurisdiction).
Situation:
"Dee recounts that during the cooperative dinner the situation 'blew up' and 'Frank pulled out his gun.' That act—pulling out a firearm in the course of an argument—constitutes brandishing and a threat with a deadly weapon."