Bill > H1450

This bill enhances safety and security in courthouses by creating new penalties for specific offenses. It makes assaults or assault and batteries committed on Massachusetts judicial department property while courts are in session or open to the public a felony offense, punishable by up to three years in state prison or two and a half years in jail, along with a fine of up to $25,000. Additionally, the bill increases the penalty for willfully disrupting court proceedings from a misdemeanor to a felony, with potential imprisonment of up to three years in state prison or two and a half years in jail, and a fine of up to $5,000. It also establishes enhanced penalties for threats of bodily injury against court staff, jurors, prosecutors, and attorneys performing their official duties, making such threats a felony punishable by up to three years in state prison or two and a half years in jail, and a fine of up to $5,000. These changes aim to protect individuals working in or attending court proceedings, ensuring their safety and security.