Bill > S1212

This bill enhances the legal authority of court officers by expanding their police powers. Specifically, the legislation modifies Chapter 221 of the General Laws to clearly define and broaden the circumstances under which court officers can exercise police duties. Under the new provision, court officers are authorized to perform police functions not just within courthouses, but also in adjacent areas like court parking lots, when designated by senior judicial leadership (such as the chief justices of the trial, supreme judicial, or appeals courts). Additionally, the bill extends their police powers to situations outside traditional courthouse settings, including when officers are attending court proceedings at alternate locations, escorting jurors or judicial officers, or managing the transportation and custody of detainees. This expanded legal framework aims to provide court officers with more comprehensive authority to maintain security and order in a variety of judicial contexts.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1212