Bill > H426

This bill proposes to add a new section to Chapter 265 of the General Laws, establishing mandatory minimum sentences for assaults on law enforcement officers in Massachusetts. Specifically, it defines "law enforcement officer" to include officers from municipal police departments, the state police, and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) police. The bill mandates that anyone who assaults or commits assault and battery on such an officer by discharging a firearm, while knowing or having reason to know the individual is a law enforcement officer performing their duties, will face a prison sentence of at least 10 years, up to life imprisonment. This sentence cannot be suspended, and a fine of up to $150,000 may be imposed in addition to, but not instead of, the mandatory minimum prison term. Furthermore, cases prosecuted under this section cannot be continued without a finding or placed on file, meaning they must proceed to a resolution.