Bill > H882

This bill aims to enhance safety and security in courthouses. It proposes three key changes to current Massachusetts law: 1. It makes certain assaults and assault and battery offenses committed on court property while the courts are in session or open to the public felony offenses, punishable by up to 3 years in state prison or 2.5 years in jail, and/or a fine of up to $25,000. 2. It increases the potential penalty for willfully disrupting court proceedings from a 1-year misdemeanor to a felony punishable by up to 3 years in state prison or 2.5 years in jail, and/or a fine of up to $5,000. 3. It establishes an enhanced penalty of up to 3 years in state prison or 2.5 years in jail, and/or a fine of up to $5,000, for certain threats to do bodily harm to court staff, jurors, prosecutors, and attorneys due to their performance of official duties. The bill does not establish any mandatory minimum sentences, restrict prosecutorial discretion, or have a fiscal impact.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H882