Bill > H2163

This bill aims to bolster safety and security within courthouses by introducing stricter penalties for certain offenses. Specifically, it creates a new offense for committing assault or assault and battery on property owned or occupied by the Massachusetts judicial department, which includes any trial or appellate court, during times when the courts are open to the public, with potential punishments including state prison time, jail time, or a significant fine of up to $25,000. Additionally, the bill revises existing laws to increase penalties for willfully disrupting court proceedings, allowing for imprisonment and fines, while clarifying that these changes do not affect a court's inherent power to hold individuals in contempt. It also enhances penalties for threats of bodily injury against judicial employees, prosecutors, or attorneys due to their official duties, also allowing for imprisonment and fines.