Massachusetts § 1A - Fingerprinting and photographing; contents of record; audits
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 1A — Fingerprinting and photographing; contents of record; audits, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 1A. Fingerprinting and photographing; contents of record; audits
Section 1A. Whoever is arrested by virtue of process or is taken into custody by an officer and is charged with the commission of a felony shall be fingerprinted according to the system of the department of state police and photographed. The fingerprints and photographs shall be immediately forwarded to the department of state police to allow a biometric positive identification. The fingerprint record shall be suitable for comparison and shall include an offense-based tracking number, completed description of the offenses charged and other descriptors as required. The executive office of public safety and security may audit police departments for compliance with this section.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 1A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 1A cover?
Section 1A ("Fingerprinting and photographing; contents of record; audits") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 1A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 1A" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 1A apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.