Massachusetts § 5 - Calendar of prisoners; contents

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 5 — Calendar of prisoners; contents, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5. Calendar of prisoners; contents

Section 5. The jailer, keeper or superintendent of each jail and house of correction shall keep in a bound book or an electronic computer database an exact calendar of all prisoners committed thereto, in which shall be recorded the names of all prisoners, their places of abode and additions, the time, cause and authority of their commitment, and, if they have been committed upon a sentence on conviction of crime, a description of their persons and such facts as, with the entries in the prison book or electronic computer database, will enable the sheriff or penal institutions commissioner of Boston to make the reports to the commissioner required by section ten. He shall record in the same book the time and authority for the release of every prisoner released and the time and manner of the escape of a prisoner escaping. A jailer, superintendent or keeper neglecting to keep such calendar or to enter such facts therein shall forfeit one hundred dollars, which shall be recovered by the county commissioners in the name of the county, or, in Suffolk county, by the penal institutions commissioner in the name of the city of Boston, and shall be expended by them for the relief of discharged prisoners.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 5

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 5 cover?

Section 5 ("Calendar of prisoners; contents") 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.