Bill > H1157

This bill proposes to amend Section 73 of Chapter 272 of the General Laws by establishing a mandatory minimum sentence for the willful destruction, defacement, or damage of burial tombs and grave markers. Specifically, it mandates that any sentence imposed for such an offense cannot be less than one thousand dollars and must include a minimum of six months imprisonment. Furthermore, individuals convicted under this section will not be eligible for suspended sentences, probation, parole, furlough, or any good conduct deductions from their sentence until they have served at least six months. The bill also clarifies that prosecutions under this section cannot be continued without a finding or placed on file, and certain provisions of Section 87-seven of Chapter 276 will not apply to those charged with this violation, ensuring a stricter penalty for desecrating burial sites.