Bill > S945

This bill establishes "municipal judicial safety zones" in areas where courts are located or court business is conducted, allowing municipalities to designate these zones after consulting with the Trial Court and local District Attorney. The bill outlines specific gang-related activities, such as witness intimidation, unlawful firearm possession, illegal drug sales, and threats of violence, that are prohibited within these zones. Proceedings related to violations will be handled in the superior, Boston municipal, or district courts, and courts can issue orders to stop intimidation, award monetary damages, and seize property obtained through illegal gang activity, with no filing fees required for such actions. Court orders will be in effect for a fixed period of 2 to 3 years and can be modified, and violating an order is a criminal offense punishable by up to one year in jail. Civil actions can be brought against gangs and their members for intimidation, even without a prior criminal conviction, and service of process on any gang member can bind the entire gang. The bill also allows for temporary protective orders, including those issued without notice in cases of immediate danger, and requires initial public notice of safety zones at least 30 days before any civil action can be filed.