Bill > S1645

This bill provides comprehensive legislation regarding the establishment and operation of a regional lockup facility in Suffolk County, Massachusetts, specifically empowering the Suffolk County Sheriff to create and manage such a facility. The bill allows the sheriff to establish a regional lockup within the county jail or elsewhere in Suffolk County, which can be used for detaining individuals arrested on probable cause or warrant. The facility will include spaces for interviews and bail hearings, and other cities, towns, or law enforcement agencies can join the regional lockup system by executing a written agreement with the sheriff. The bill grants the sheriff and regional lockup administrator full authority to detain, book, hold, and transport pre-arraignment prisoners, and specifies that member police officers will maintain full jurisdiction during prisoner transport. Additionally, the legislation modifies existing laws to clarify the sheriff's responsibilities in appointing a regional lockup administrator, who can be hired or terminated at the sheriff's discretion. The bill also ensures that the Suffolk County Sheriff receives legal protections similar to those afforded to other governmental officials, and it will take effect immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1645