Bill > H2634

This bill expands legal definitions and protections related to sexual assault by law enforcement officers across two sections of Massachusetts law. The bill broadens the definition of "control" and "coercion" in sexual assault statutes to explicitly include scenarios where law enforcement officers abuse their power, such as supervising individuals in training programs, interacting with detained or investigated persons, communicating arrest or charging powers (even implicitly), and exercising undue influence while acting under color of law. Coercion is defined to encompass threats of harm, physical restraint, schemes designed to create fear of consequences, and abuse of legal processes. Additionally, the bill requires all law enforcement agencies to develop and publicly post policies within 180 days prohibiting officers from engaging in sexual contact with suspects during criminal investigations, specifically targeting investigations related to prostitution. These provisions aim to create clearer legal standards and prevent potential sexual misconduct by law enforcement personnel by more precisely defining and addressing power imbalances and potential abuse of authority.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2634