While we all know swearing, and particularly shouting 'fuck', isn't a very nice thing to do. I wouldn't have thought it could land you in much trouble with the law. But what do I know? Because an 18-year-old from the US is facing jail time after swearing in front of an old lady.

No shit. Not at her, just near her.

Jared Smith was booked in West Monroe, Louisiana, after shouting 'fuck' near to a 75-year-old woman. There are no witnesses, according to a Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office arrest report.

If you're wondering what the actual crime committed here was, then let the officer's report enlighten you. "While standing next to my 75-year-old complainant, Jared yelled the word 'fuck' and clearly disturbed her peace," they wrote.

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Jared Smith. Credit: Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office

The official charge is: 'disturbing the peace/language/disorderly conduct'.

Smith, who is sporting what appears to be a cracker of a love bite in his mugshot, is reported to have denied shouting the swear word.

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He was booked at the Ouachita Correctional Center and later released on a $200 bail.

If found guilty, Smith could face up to 90 days in prison and/or a fine of $100, the New York Post reported. Bit heavy for swearing, don't you think?

And don't go thinking that just because you're in the UK you're free to swear as loud as you want.

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According to Ask The Police: "There are various offences which can be committed involving the use of threatening abusive words or behaviour. The effect on others and the intention of the person swearing would be some of the factors to consider when deciding whether or not an offence had been committed.

"There is also an offence of using obscene and profane language in the street to the annoyance of residents. However, a person is only likely to be arrested for this offence if the behaviour occurs in the presence of a police officer."