Bill > H2578

This bill specifically authorizes the Suffolk County Sheriff to establish and operate a regional lockup facility with expanded powers and responsibilities. The bill allows the sheriff to create a lockup facility within the Suffolk County jail or elsewhere in the county, which can be used to detain individuals arrested on probable cause, warrants, or civil processes. The facility will include spaces for interviews and bail hearings, and other cities, towns, and law enforcement agencies can join the regional lockup system by executing a written agreement with the sheriff. Police officers transporting prisoners to this facility will maintain full jurisdiction during transport, and the facility will have the same functions as traditional lockups. The bill also grants the sheriff authority to appoint and terminate the lockup facility administrator, provides legal protections for the sheriff similar to other government officials, and requires that all training requirements be completed within one year of the facility's establishment. The changes modify existing Massachusetts General Laws to codify these new powers and responsibilities for the Suffolk County Sheriff's regional lockup system, with the act taking effect immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2578