Massachusetts § 131 - Sunday trespassers; arrest and detention without warrant
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 131 — Sunday trespassers; arrest and detention without warrant, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 131. Sunday trespassers; arrest and detention without warrant
Section 131. Whoever is discovered in the act of wilfully injuring a fruit or forest tree or of committing any kind of malicious mischief on Sunday may be arrested without a warrant by a sheriff, deputy sheriff, constable, police officer or other person, and detained in jail or otherwise until a complaint can be made against him for the offence, and he be taken upon a warrant issued upon such complaint; but such detention without warrant shall not continue beyond the following day.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 131
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 131 cover?
Section 131 ("Sunday trespassers; arrest and detention without warrant") 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 § 131?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 131" (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 § 131 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.