Bill > S1134

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding probation violations and sentencing, specifically changing how suspended sentences are handled when probation is revoked. Currently, when a suspended sentence is revoked, courts have different procedures depending on whether the sentence is for state prison or a house of correction. The bill grants courts more flexibility when a suspended sentence to a house of correction is revoked, allowing judges to either impose the full suspended sentence or impose only a portion of the sentence, with the remaining balance still suspended. If a judge chooses to impose only part of the suspended sentence, the bill stipulates that the remaining balance and its suspension period will be reduced by the time already served during the revocation. Additionally, when imposing less than the full suspended sentence, the court can also modify the probation conditions. By removing certain existing language and inserting these new provisions, the bill aims to provide judges with more discretionary power in handling probation violations and sentencing.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1134