Massachusetts Legal Developments Blog

Massachusetts Legal Developments Blog

Can You Really Go to Jail for Improper Storage of a Firearm in Massachusetts?

One of the first things people learn in gun safety courses is the proper storage of firearms. All responsible gun owners can agree that storing your firearms is incredibly important, especially if you have children in your home. But can you really go to jail for improper storage of a firearm in Massachusetts? The answer may surprise you.

 

Man Faces Up to 12 Years After Boy Fatally Shot by Improperly Stored Firearm

 

A man in Boston is now facing a maximum sentence of 12 years after a fatal accident involving improper storage of a firearm. The 22-year-old defendant stored his firearm in a fanny pack in a residence where a 12-year-old child had easy access to it. All reports seem to indicate that the child accidentally shot himself in the chest with the weapon after taking it out of the fanny pack. The gunshot wound proved to be fatal. 

 

As a result, the defendant has been charged with improper storage of a firearm near a minor, an offense that comes with a maximum prison sentence of 12 years. The minimum sentence is 1.5 years in prison. Alternatively, a jail sentence of between 1 and 2.5 years may be possible, plus a fine of up to $15,000. 

 

How Should I Store My Firearm in Boston?

 

Massachusetts has strict guidelines on how guns should be stored. You essentially have two options: Install a locking device directly onto the firearm itself, or lock the firearm in some kind of container. If you choose the second option, you do not need to install a safety lock on the firearm itself. In addition, authorities in Massachusetts "recommend" that you store ammo and guns separately – although this is not explicitly required. 

 

A safety device installed directly onto the weapon must prevent the firearm from discharging. There are specific firearm locks available, and these may be installed directly onto the trigger guards. With the trigger disabled, the firearm is not operable. A gun lock may also be looped through the firearm in a manner that holds its bolt open, preventing the firing pin from moving forward. Many gun owners use bike locks in this manner. Some might argue that a zip tie is also acceptable, although it is best to use a more secure option. Guns may also be "disabled" by removing certain components and storing them separately. For example, you might remove the bolt on a bolt-action hunting rifle. However, authorities in Massachusetts make it clear that a locking safety device is the only acceptable option. 

 

One might argue that if the aforementioned defendant had put a simple lock on the zip of his fanny pack, he might have avoided the tragedy. However, it is not clear whether this locked fanny pack would classify as a proper "container" under Massachusetts law. In reality, the wording refers primarily to gun safes or hard-shelled, tough gun cases. 

 

Where Can I Find an xperienced Defense Attorney in Massachusetts?

 

If you have been searching for a Boston defense attorney who can help with firearm offenses, look no further than the Law Office of Edward R. Molari. We know that it might seem ridiculous to face charges simply because you forgot to secure your firearms on a single occasion, but legal consequences are a real possibility in this situation. Book your consultation today to discuss potential defense strategies geared toward your unique situation. 

Alleged Cover-Up By Federal Criminal Police: Murder Suspect Sues for Wrongful Conviction

Facing accusations for crimes you did not even commit is a nightmare that most people prefer not to think about. But for many people in Boston, this experience becomes an inescapable reality. Today, the Boston Police Department is facing a lawsuit after a man falsely accused of shooting his cousin was exonerated. Unfortunately, this innocent individual had already spent almost two decades behind bars before finally walking free. What happens if you find yourself in a similar situation?

 

BPD Faces Federal Lawsuit for Wrongful Conviction

 

The BPD is facing a number of shocking allegations in connection with this lawsuit. These include witness tampering, concealment of evidence, and other offenses. The police seemed to have been intent on putting the plaintiff behind bars, even if it meant paying off witnesses and tipping the scales of justice against him. 

 

The plaintiff is now 25, having spent most of his youthful years in prison. In 2021, he was finally released from prison after key documents surfaced. These documents showed that police had concealed evidence from prosecutors that implicated another suspect. In addition, the police seem to have paid witnesses to testify against the plaintiffs. Those who refused to participate in this kangaroo court were threatened with criminal charges. Police also promised to drop charges against at least one witness in exchange for his favorable testimony. These actions helped condemn the plaintiff to a prison sentence. 

 

In an official complaint filed against the BPD, the plaintiff's legal counsel stated:

 

"The BPD's lawless culture further resulted in a pattern, practice, and/or custom of deliberately fabricating and coercing evidence as well as withholding exculpatory evidence. "Defendant City of Boston had notice of a widespread practice by its

officers and agents under which individuals suspected of criminal activity, such as Shaun, were routinely deprived of exculpatory evidence, were subjected to criminal proceedings based on false evidence, and were deprived of their liberty without probable cause, such that individuals were routinely implicated in crimes to which they had no connection and for which there was scant evidence to suggest that they were involved."

 

Can I Keep Fighting My Charges Even Behind Bars?

 

This story shows that it is possible to continue fighting your charges even after you are placed behind bars. Not only that, but the story shows that it can be incredibly beneficial to continue searching for evidence. Although no one can take back the many years this plaintiff spent in prison, he will likely receive compensation when this trial goes before a jury (or is settled out of court). 

 

Where Can I Find a Qualified Defense Attorney in Boston?

 

If you have been wrongfully accused of a crime you did not commit in Boston, the obvious choice is to get in touch with a qualified defense attorney at your earliest convenience. With help from a lawyer, you can fight wrongful accusations and avoid prison time in the first place. Alternatively, you can continue fighting for your rights if you are already behind bars. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective action plan. 

Footprints Lead to Murder Suspect: But is This Evidence Really Admissible?

The average person's understanding of the criminal justice system is based on what they see on TV. In this highly-polished, carefully-choreographed world, detectives are portrayed as technological savants and logical geniuses. Scientific evidence in the form of fingerprints, DNA, and ballistic data is always irrefutable. 

In reality, criminal justice is rarely straightforward. Evidence may point in one direction but may not provide a conclusive link between suspects and their alleged crimes. Unfortunately, this doesn't stop authorities from perpetuating causal links that do not exist. Concerns on this subject have been raised after bloody footprints led investigators to a suspect in Newton. But putting aside the sensational headlines, how reliable is this evidence?

Investigators in Newton Rely on Footprints to Track Down Suspect 

On June 27, it was reported that an arrest had been made in connection to a random, triple murder in Newton. Police apparently examined bloody footprints in order to track down a suspect, and they seem confident about the reliability of this evidence. One investigator stated:

"Like fingerprints, the skin of people's feet is unique and leaves an impression that can be compared."

Police eventually located the suspect "staggering" down a road and took an impression from his feet. This apparently provided them with a clear match to the footprints found at the murder scene. 

Are Footprints Admissible Evidence?

But despite the confidence expressed by the authorities, questions may be raised in court about the reliability of this evidence. Consider the fact that in 2017, the American Association for the Advancement of Science issued a report on this subject and found that:

"[...] examiners should avoid claiming that they can associate a latent print with a single source and should particularly avoid claiming or implying that they can do so infallibly, with 100% accuracy."

The reality is that fingerprint (and footprint) examination is not the "exact science" that authorities purport it to be. If examiners cannot claim to be 100% accurate in their findings, then by very definition, it cannot be used to determine a suspect's guilt. Remember, the prosecution must establish their guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt." Even a 1% chance of an inaccurate fingerprint examination could create sufficient doubt. 

Remember that while the science behind fingerprint examination is questionable at best, the science behind footprint examination is virtually non-existent. Criminal responsibility may be called into question in the aforementioned triple-murder case – even if the suspect did, in fact, commit the crime. 

Get in Touch With a Criminal Defense Attorney in Massachusetts Today

If you have been accused of a serious crime in Massachusetts, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Choose the Law Office of Edward R. Molari, and you can approach this situation with a measure of confidence and efficiency. The reality of criminal justice is far different from what you see on television. The only way to get a sense of how this system really works is to speak with an experienced attorney. Book your consultation today to get started. 

The Jack Jones Airport Scandal: Will He Be Convicted?

The United States is one of the few places in the world where law-abiding citizens are allowed to bear arms. While this is true, there are certain locations that Boston firearm owners should be wary of. Perhaps at the very top of this list is Logan Airport. While it is acceptable to transport firearms by plane with the right permissions, you may face consequences if you give no prior warning of your firearms after these items are discovered in your luggage. This is a legal issue that NFL player Jack Jones is currently facing. But how bad is it? Was this just an honest mistake? Will he be convicted of crimes? 

Jack Jones Caught with Two Loaded Firearms at Logan Airport

The TSA has announced that Jack Jones was caught with two loaded firearms and an undisclosed amount of ammunition at Logan Airport. He is now facing a number of charges, including unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm, possession of a large-capacity feeding device, and possession of ammunition without a firearm identification card. Shortly after the TSA discovered the firearms in his luggage, the athlete was taken into custody. 

These charges would suggest that Jones is in serious trouble. The lack of a firearms license suggests that he did not legally have a right to possess these weapons. The possession of a large-capacity magazine may make these consequences particularly serious. It is now reported that he faces a total of nine gun charges. One has to wonder whether these weapons were obtained legally. 

Are Large-Capacity Magazines Allowed in Massachusetts?

While a large-capacity magazine may be legal in Jones’ home state of Arizona, they are not legal in Massachusetts. In Boston, gun owners are limited to pistol magazines with a capacity of 10 cartridges or rounds. One of the most popular pistol magazines in Arizona is a 30-round, extended magazine – which is completely illegal in Massachusetts and Boston. In a somewhat obscure fashion, Massachusetts has exempted magazines manufactured or possessed before September 13th, 1994. However, it is unlikely that Jones’ magazine falls into this category. 

 Was it an Honest Mistake?

Jones’ decision to arrive at the airport with two unlawfully-possessed pistols and a large-capacity magazine may be more understandable than many give him credit for. Arizona is much more supportive of gun rights compared to Massachusetts, and he may have been confused about these legal differences. In addition, he may have genuinely forgotten that he put these guns in his luggage. Mistakes happen, and sometimes defendants can escape consequences if they can show that the guns were not carried “knowingly.”   

Where Can I Find a Firearms Lawyer in Boston?

If you have been searching for an experienced firearms lawyer in Boston, look no further than the Law Office of Edward R. Molari. As a Boston criminal defense attorney with many years of experience, Edward R. Molari has dealt with many cases involving firearms possession. We know that honest mistakes can often lead to unintended legal consequences, and we can defend your rights. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective defense strategy. 

Multiple Attorneys Face Sex Crime Charges in Boston

There is always a sense of shock when attorneys are charged with crimes in Boston. These individuals are closely linked with the law itself – and to see them breaking the law is surprising, to say the least. Some might argue that along with judges and juries, attorneys are tasked with ensuring the integrity of our legal system. Two attorneys recently faced sex crime charges in Boston, and these stories show that anyone can find themselves in court with serious allegations, even if they genuinely did nothing wrong.  

Lawyer Arrested on Sexual Assault Charges

On June 5, it was reported that a corporate attorney had been arrested for sexual assaults that allegedly occurred 15 years ago. He has pleaded not guilty to three counts of aggravated rape, two counts of kidnapping, one count of assault with intent to rape and one count of indecent assault and battery. Three women have come forward, alleging that the man held them at gunpoint before sexually assaulting them. A fourth woman claims that she was attacked by the man while jogging but managed to escape. 

FBI agents apparently collected a drinking glass from the lawyer's office and used it to compare DNA evidence found at the crime scenes. The defendant's defense attorney points out that if this DNA evidence was obtained without a warrant, it should not be admitted in court. The defendant has been suspended from his job pending the outcome of the criminal case. 

Another Lawyer Found Not Guilty for Similar Charges

On June 9, another Boston attorney was found not guilty of two counts of rape. The alleged victim claims that she was sexually assaulted during the morning after partying with the man and another female friend. Apparently, the prosecution failed to present a convincing case, and the defense exposed several inconsistencies in the victim's recollection of the event. 

It is worth mentioning that numerous observers seemed completely confident that the man would be found guilty. This should serve as a cautionary tale not to jump to assumptions, as the only real way to determine the validity of allegations is through the official legal process. Media reports and rumors can sensationalize these stories – especially when attorneys are involved. The headline of an attorney being charged with rape is often seized upon with enthusiasm by journalists without any consideration for the actual evidence. Although juries can be influenced by these "juicy headlines," a solid defense attorney can cut through to the underlying truth.  

Where Can I Find an Experienced Defense Attorney in Boston?

If you find yourself facing serious charges in Boston, it is time to get in touch with a qualified criminal defense attorney. Choose Edward R. Molari, Attorney at Law, and you can get started with an effective defense strategy right away. Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty – and your right to an attorney is something you should take full advantage of. Reach out today to get started. 

I Was Pulled Over for Tinted Windows in Boston: Is That Even Legal?

If you have been driving in Boston for a few years, you are probably aware that police pull people over for minor violations. This might be nothing more than an inconvenience for some. But what happens if this traffic stop leads to something much worse? What happens if the police discover evidence of a much more serious crime? Suddenly, you are facing serious consequences for a traffic stop that probably should not have happened in the first place. But is this even legal? What does the Constitution say about these situations, and how can you defend yourself against criminal allegations? 

Three Arrests Made After Suspects Stopped Due to “Excessively Tinted Window”

On May 25, three individuals were arrested in downtown Boston. They had been pulled over for driving in a car with what police called “excessively tinted windows.” After the traffic stop, the vehicle and the suspects were searched – and an illegal firearm was allegedly found in their possession. 

According to United States and Massachusetts law, the reason for the initial traffic stop matters a great deal. For the traffic stop to be justified, there must be some kind of law being broken, something that is serious enough to put other people in danger. You might argue that a broken tail light affects traffic safety, especially at night. But even then, the argument is rather thin. When dealing with tinted windows, on the other hand, it is obvious that police are simply searching for an excuse to pull people over and search them. 

Can Police Legally Pull Me Over for Tinted Windows?

First of all, it is worth mentioning that tinted windows are legal in Massachusetts. The law states that as long as these windows allow 35% of light to pass through the glass, they are fully acceptable. The fine for this violation is $250 – making it a minor offense that is far less dangerous than driving drunk or even having a broken tail light. 

Furthermore, one has to wonder how a police officer can detect whether a window allows more than 35% of the light to pass through. They are simply relying on their best judgment, and it is obviously impossible for a human being to detect the difference between a 34% tint and a 36% tint with their naked eye. In addition, you should know that a traffic stop does not automatically give police permission to search you or your vehicle. Ask for a search warrant before consenting to any searches. 

Where Can I Find a Criminal Defense Attorney in Boston?

If you have been searching the Boston area for a qualified criminal defense attorney, look no further than Edward R. Molari, Attorney at Law. We know that many of these traffic stops are completely unconstitutional, and we can push to have your charges dropped due to these obvious constitutional violations. Settling for a public defender may leave you with a lawyer who is not prepared to fight for your rights. Contact us today to immediately get started with an effective action plan. 

The Use of Digital Evidence in a Massachusetts Assault and Battery Case

With the rise of the digital world, digital evidence has become incredibly important in criminal law. In fact, most criminal trials today involve at least some digital evidence. If you have been charged with assault and battery related to a domestic dispute, you should know that the prosecution will almost certainly search for digital evidence they can use against you. But how might this digital evidence affect your case? Is digital evidence even admissible in court? How do you protect your data privacy? Let’s find out: 

What is Digital Evidence – and Why is it Important?

Examples of digital evidence include:

  • Text messages
  • Emails
  • Social media posts
  • Photos/videos saved on your phone
  • Downloaded files
  • Internet surfing history

These are just a few examples, and there are almost limitless types of digital evidence thanks to the wide-ranged nature of the internet. 

But why might digital evidence be important in your assault and battery case? In many cases of domestic violence, it’s a “he said, she said” type of situation. If there were no witnesses of the alleged violence, the prosecution might try to use digital evidence to support their claims. 

For example, they might show that you threatened the victim with text messages. They might also show that you chatted with friends and talked about how much you wanted to physically hurt the victim. 

You might have visited questionable websites – perhaps researching how to get away with certain crimes or use certain weapons. Someone might have videotaped the entire incident on their smartphone with your knowledge. There are many possibilities. 

What are Your Privacy Rights in Massachusetts?

Privacy rights on social media are not strong in Massachusetts. The general consensus is that once you post something on social media, there is “no reasonable expectation of privacy.” But there are some exceptions to the rule. Back in 2022, the Massachusetts Supreme Court expanded privacy rights for social media users. 

This came after a defendant had posted a video of himself holding a gun on Snapchat. Of course, this only applies to posts and not text messages. The Massachusetts Supreme Court was clear on this subject in 2021, stating that there is absolutely no expectation of privacy when it comes to text messages. 

What You Can Do to Protect Your Privacy Rights

You can take steps to protect your privacy in a simple way: Refuse to hand over your smartphone unless police have a warrant. It is really that simple. 

Where Can I Find a Qualified Defense Attorney in Massachusetts?

If you are facing charges of assault and battery in Massachusetts, you should get in touch with a defense attorney as soon as possible. Choose Edward R. Molari, Attorney at Law, and you can immediately get started with an effective action plan. We know that digital evidence can make or break your entire case. With our help, you can push back against digital evidence and invalidate it. We can also help you present digital evidence of your own that proves your innocence. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective action plan. 

Department of Justice Cracks Down on Darknet Drug Smuggling

For those who do not know, the “darknet” is the part of the internet that cannot be reached with a search engine like Google or Bing. But unlike the “deep web,” it’s not enough to simply know the web address of the site you wish to reach and enter it manually. If you want to access the darknet (sometimes called the “dark web”), you need a special browser. While the deep web constitutes about 95% of the entire internet, the dark net makes up just 5% of the web. True to its name, this part of the internet is filled with all kinds of unsavory things, including human smuggling operations, hitmen for hire, and illegal drugs.  

But what happens if you use the darknet to carry out your drug operation? Is it really as “hidden” as it seems? A new operation by the Department of Justice is cracking down on these operations, and it is having considerable success. 

Department of Justice Announces “Record-Breaking” Darknet Operation

On May 2, 2023, the Department of Justice announced record-breaking seizures and arrests as part of an international operation against darknet drug trafficking. This is Operation SpecTor, and it has resulted in 288 arrests so far. The operation also led to the seizure of 117 firearms, over $53 million in cash, and 850 kilograms of drugs. 

Coordinated in the United States, Europe, and South America, the operation involved the FBI, Europol’s Cybercrime Centre (EC3), and a wide range of other organizations. Attorney General Garland stated:

“Our message to criminals on the dark web is this: You can try to hide in the furthest reaches of the internet, but the Justice Department will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes.”

The FBI also specifically mentioned several Mexican cartels, pointing out that they have become extremely active on the darknet for their drug smuggling operations. A number of high-profile arrests were made over the years, sending numerous defendants to prison for decades. 

Brazilian Drug Trafficker Arrested in Boston

On May 5, 2023, it was reported that a Brazilian drug trafficker had been arrested by Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in Boston. A field officer described this individual as a “public safety threat,” and he may be sent back to Brazil. It is not clear whether this arrest was connected with the aforementioned Operation SpecTor, but it is clear that multiple enforcement agencies are cracking down on these operations. 

Where Can I Find a Qualified, Experienced Defense Attorney in Massachusetts?

If you have been charged with drug smuggling on the darknet, it is imperative that you get in touch with an experienced defense attorney in Massachusetts at your earliest convenience. Although the Justice Department takes this situation very seriously, there are a number of defense strategies you can potentially employ to mitigate your legal consequences. Book your consultation today to get started. 

Video and Audio Recordings as Evidence in Massachusetts Domestic Violence Trials

Most Americans are unsure about the laws regarding video and audio evidence in trials. You may be vaguely aware that it is illegal to record someone without their consent in most states. But do these “wiretapping laws” apply in Massachusetts? What if you’re facing a trial related to domestic violence? Can your spouse or “alleged victim” use recordings and audio against you – even if you never consented to be recorded? The answer may surprise you: 

The Basics of Wiretapping Laws in Massachusetts

Massachusetts follows a “two-party consent” system when it comes to recording people’s conversations. This means that it is illegal to secretly record a conversation unless everyone involved is made aware of the fact that they’re being recorded. They must also consent to being recorded. Once a person is made aware that they are being recorded, it is their responsibility to leave the conversation if they do not consent. Massachusetts is actually one of the strictest states in the nation when it comes to wiretapping laws. 

So what does this mean for you as a defendant in a domestic violence case? If your spouse recorded you without your permission, this footage typically cannot be used against you in court. Whenever a law is broken in order to collect the evidence, the evidence becomes inadmissible. 

Changes May Be Coming

With all of that said, the state is considering making changes to its wiretapping laws specifically for domestic violence cases. A statewide debate was sparked after a woman was criminally charged for illegally recording her husband. The footage she recorded showed her husband attempting to suffocate her with a pillow, according to a report from 2022. This prompted many lawmakers to consider changes to the legislation. 

In March of 2023, it was reported that a new bill would allow domestic violence victims to secretly record their abusers without facing any consequences whatsoever. Although this law has not yet passed as of this writing, that day could soon arrive. In addition, a recent Supreme Court ruling has allowed the use of police body cameras in court against domestic violence defendants. 

Where Can I Find an Experienced Defense Attorney in Massachusetts?

If you have been searching for a qualified defense attorney in Massachusetts, look no further than Edward R. Molari, Attorney at Law. We know that it can be daunting to face accusations of assault and battery, domestic violence, and related crimes. This is especially true if your alleged victim is intent on using audio recordings and video footage against you in court. With our help, you can use a range of defense strategies to fight for your rights effectively. This may include having certain evidence thrown out of court. Book your consultation today to get started. 

Assaults on the Most Vulnerable: Are the Consequences Worse?

Everyone who is accused of a crime is considered equal in the eyes of the law. But what about the victims? Can you face more serious offenses for targeting one specific victim rather than another? The answer is complicated. There are certain laws that make penalties much worse for specifically targeting minorities. On the other hand, there may be "unwritten laws" that make it much more likely to suffer serious penalties when you attack a vulnerable member of society. Let's examine two recent cases in Massachusetts: 

Teens Face Charges for Assaulting Homeless Man

On April 10th, it was reported that a number of teens had been arrested for taunting and assaulting a homeless man. Onlookers witnessed the teens take the man's hat, taunt him, and shove him. They were apparently trying to start a fight. Witnesses called the police, and the teens attempted to flee when the authorities arrived. One of the teens was caught soon thereafter, while the other evaded the police for a considerable distance. 

He was eventually apprehended, but not before assaulting a police officer in an attempt to escape. The question of whether a 17-year-old should be tried as an adult has been a subject of considerable debate in Massachusetts, but it is clear that these teens will face the full brunt of the law – mainly because of the defenseless nature of their victim. 

Woman Faces Possible Hate Crime for Road Rage Incident

On April 6, it was reported that a woman in Massachusetts was facing potential hate crimes after a road rage incident in Marlboro. After nearly rear-ending the victim, the attacker became enraged, followed the victim, and assaulted her. She also reportedly yelled the words, "Go back to your country!" This can certainly be viewed as a hate crime under the current legal system. She is also facing aggravated assault cars because she used her car keys to assault the victim, knocking out a tooth in the process. The victim is said to be of Brazilian descent. 

Do Victims Matter?

Victims can affect your penalties in Massachusetts assault cases, even if it is not specifically written in the law. Putting aside the matter of hate crimes, jurors are human beings. And as human beings, they react differently when they hear about an old lady being assaulted compared to a young man. There is an underlying notion that this is a heinous crime, and your chances of positive results go down when the victim is especially vulnerable. 

Where Can I Find a Qualified Massachusetts Defense Attorney?

If you have been accused of assault or another violent crime in Massachusetts, look no further than Edward R. Molari, Attorney at Law. Over the years, we have helped numerous defendants with a wide range of crimes, including assault. We know how daunting this situation can be, especially if your offense is considered especially heinous because of the nature of the victim. With our help, you can strive for the best possible results and fight back in court with a solid defense strategy. Book your consultation today. 

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