Massachusetts § 15 - Aiding escape from a correctional institution or jail; rescue
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 15 — Aiding escape from a correctional institution or jail; rescue, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15. Aiding escape from a correctional institution or jail; rescue
Section 15. Whoever conveys into a correctional institution of the commonwealth or into a jail, house of correction, house of reformation or like place of confinement, a disguise, instrument, tool, weapon or other thing which is adapted or useful to aid a prisoner in making his escape, with intent to aid the escape of a prisoner, or whoever, by any means, aids or assists such prisoner in endeavoring to escape therefrom, whether such escape is effected or attempted or not, and whoever forcibly or fraudulently rescues or attempts to rescue a prisoner held in custody upon a conviction or charge of crime, shall, if the person whose escape or rescue was effected or intended is a convict under sentence to the state prison or is charged with a felony, be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars or by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than ten years; but if he is a convict under sentence to any other of said institutions, by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than seven years; and if he is charged with a misdemeanor, then by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars or by imprisonment in jail for not more than two years.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 15
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 15 cover?
Section 15 ("Aiding escape from a correctional institution or jail; rescue") 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 § 15?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 15" (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 § 15 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.