Massachusetts § 56 - Arrest without warrant of persons found in act of illegally manufacturing or selling alcoholic beverages; seizures
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 56 — Arrest without warrant of persons found in act of illegally manufacturing or selling alcoholic beverages; seizures, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 56. Arrest without warrant of persons found in act of illegally manufacturing or selling alcoholic beverages; seizures
Section 56. A deputy sheriff, chief of police, deputy chief of police, city marshal, deputy or assistant marshal, police officer including a state police officer, or constable, or, in the county of Dukes or Nantucket, the sheriff anywhere within his county, or any investigator of the commission, may without a warrant arrest any person whom he finds in the act of illegally manufacturing, selling or exposing or keeping for sale, storing, transporting, importing or exporting alcoholic beverages or alcohol, and seize the said beverages or alcohol and any vessels and implements of manufacture or sale in the possession of such person, and detain them until warrants can be procured against such person, and for the seizure of said beverages or alcohol, vessels and implements, under this chapter. Such officers shall enforce or cause to be enforced the penalties provided by law against every person who is guilty of a violation of this chapter of which they can obtain reasonable proof, and shall make all needful and appropriate investigations for the said purpose.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 56
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 56 cover?
Section 56 ("Arrest without warrant of persons found in act of illegally manufacturing or selling alcoholic beverages; seizures") 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 § 56?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 56" (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 § 56 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.