Massachusetts § 22 - Poultry thieves; detention by owner; penalty
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 22 — Poultry thieves; detention by owner; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22. Poultry thieves; detention by owner; penalty
Section 22. Whoever, with intent to commit larceny, breaks or enters or enters in the night without breaking any building or enclosure wherein is kept or confined any kind of live poultry, may be detained or kept in custody in a convenient place by the owner of the poultry, or by his agent or employee, for not more than twenty-four hours, Sunday excepted, until a complaint can be made against him for the offence and he be taken upon a warrant issued upon such complaint, and, upon conviction of such trespassing or breaking or entering shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than three years, or by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars and imprisonment in the house of correction for not more than two years.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 22
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 22 cover?
Section 22 ("Poultry thieves; detention by owner; penalty") 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 § 22?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 22" (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 § 22 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.