Crime in Massachusetts

This article refers to crime in the U.S. state of Massachusetts.

State statistics

In 2008 there were 185,133 crimes reported in Massachusetts, including 167 murders.[1]

Capital punishment laws

Capital punishment is not applied in this state.[2] However, the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts explicitly authorizes the Massachusetts Legislature (General Court) to enact statutes providing for capital punishment.[3] Since the abolition of capital punishment in the Commonwealth, attempts have been made by supporters of capital punishment to reestablish it in Massachusetts; however, these attempts have failed in the Legislature.

Criminal law

Current prisoners convicted of felonies may not vote. However, Massachusetts does not prohibit former prisoners convicted of felonies from voting.

Massachusetts' conspiracy law is broader than most other states in the nation, as it does not require a direct act. If a felony were discussed, it would constitute conspiracy though no one took any overt action.[4]

See also

References

  1. ↑ http://www.disastercenter.com/crime/macrime.htm
  2. ↑ http://www.religioustolerance.org/execut3.htm
  3. ↑ See article of amendment CXVI of the Massachusetts Constitution.
  4. ↑ Lavoie, Denise (6 September 2010). "Man appeals conviction in murder conspiracy". Burlington, Vermont: Burlington Free Press. pp. 7A.


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