Massachusetts § 38 - Larceny; wrongful detention of money by carriers
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 38 — Larceny; wrongful detention of money by carriers, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38. Larceny; wrongful detention of money by carriers
Section 38. Whoever, being engaged in the business of transporting merchandise, parcels or other property for hire, accepts from a consignor or his agent or from a connecting carrier any merchandise, parcel or other property for delivery to a consignee upon payment by the consignee of an amount of money for said merchandise, parcel or other property, and embezzles or fraudulently converts to his own use, or with intent to use or embezzle, takes, secretes or otherwise disposes of, or fraudulently withholds, appropriates, lends, invests or otherwise uses or applies such money in whole or in part or any substitute therefor received by him from such consignee, contrary to the instructions or without the consent of the consignor, shall be deemed guilty of larceny. A member or employee of a co-partnership, or an officer or employee of a corporation, engaged in said business of transporting merchandise, parcels or other property for hire who so disposes of such money in whole or in part or any substitute therefor for his own use or for the use of said co-partnership or corporation, contrary to the instructions or without the consent of the consignor, shall be guilty of larceny.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 38
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 38 cover?
Section 38 ("Larceny; wrongful detention of money by carriers") 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 § 38?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 38" (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 § 38 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.