The term 'READS THE RIOT ACT TO' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: REPROACHES (10 letters) and DRESSESDOWN (11 letters). The term 'READS THE RIOT ACT TO' is a phrase used to describe a situation in which someone reads aloud a law or proclamation that is intended to stop a disturbance or riot. The two crossword solutions, REPROACHES and DRESSESDOWN, both refer to the act of scolding or reprimanding someone for their behavior. Therefore, the term 'READS THE RIOT ACT TO' can be summarized as a situation in which someone reads aloud a law or proclamation to stop a disturbance or riot, and then scolds or reprimands those involved.