Why have I been issued with two charges for the same incident?

Depending on the severity of the incident there are times when two charges are raised - this is known as "alternative charging".

The first charge is based on consideration of the severity of the offence and will carry the more severe punishment(s) if proven.

The second charge is based on consideration that the severity of the offence may not be as bad as the first charge but if proven carries reduced punishment(s)

When answering these charge you may consider you are innocent of the first charge but acknowledge you were guilty of the lesser charge. it is also human nature to potentially consider the lesser charge to reduce any punishment - HOWEVER - for the second/lesser charge to be accepted you will still need to be found innocent of the first/severer charge. You cant accept the second to get off the first!