House Passes Tough Anti-Gang and Witness Protection
Legislation
The legislation establishes a statewide Witness Protection Program, expands the definition and applicability of intimidation in criminal trials, protects witnesses from being exposed to retribution by defendants or others in violent crime and gang cases, and strengthens the penalties related to illegal firearms possession and gang-related firearms use. “This bill sends a powerful message to gangs and would-be criminals,” said Representative Keenan, a member of the Judiciary Committee and a former prosecutor in the Essex County District Attorney’s office, “Witness intimidation will not be tolerated in our Commonwealth, gang violence will be prosecuted harshly, and the people of Massachusetts are ready to stand up to the crimes on our streets. I applaud the House for its actions today and I hope the Governor will move quickly to sign this important bill into law. Justice free from intimidation is a fundamental right.” “It’s imperative that victims and witnesses be able to testify in court without fear of reprisal,” said Essex District Attorney Jonathan W. Blodgett. “Their testimony is critical to securing convictions and making our communities safer places to live. I am very pleased with the passage of this important legislation.”
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