Massachusetts § 5 - Armed forces obeying orders for suppressing riot and dispersing and arresting persons

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 5 — Armed forces obeying orders for suppressing riot and dispersing and arresting persons, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5. Armed forces obeying orders for suppressing riot and dispersing and arresting persons

Section 5. When an armed force, called out under chapter thirty-three to suppress a tumult or riot, or to disperse a body of men acting together by force and with intent to commit a felony, or to offer violence to persons or property, or with intent by force or violence to resist or oppose the execution of the laws of the commonwealth, arrives at the place of such unlawful, riotous or tumultuous assembly, its members shall obey such orders for suppressing the riot or tumult, and for dispersing and arresting all persons who are committing any of said offences, as they have received from the governor, or a judge of a court of record, or the sheriff of the county, and also such orders as they there receive from any two of the magistrates or officers before mentioned.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 5

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 5 cover?

Section 5 ("Armed forces obeying orders for suppressing riot and dispersing and arresting persons") 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 § 5?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 5" (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 § 5 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.