How is "public intoxication" defined under California law?

In California, public intoxication is defined as being under the influence of alcohol or drugs in a public place to the degree that it causes a disturbance or poses a danger to oneself or others. This definition is grounded in the idea that when individuals are intoxicated in a public setting, their behavior can disrupt the peace, safety, and order of the community.

Option C captures this definition perfectly as it explicitly states that the individual must be under the influence in a public place, and this condition results in a disturbance. This means that the law seeks not only to prohibit public intoxication but also to address the potential consequences of such behavior when it affects the lives of others or the environment around them.

The other options do not align with the legal definition of public intoxication in California. Being affected by substance use in a private setting does not fall under public intoxication, as it doesn't concern public spaces or the potential for community disturbance. Similarly, being under the influence in a subdued manner or without any public disturbances would not meet the criteria since the law specifically requires a level of influence that disrupts public order. Thus, recognizing the context and implications of public intoxication is critical for law enforcement in understanding how to apply this statute.