Section 4. If a prosecuting officer determines that exigent circumstances exist regarding an imminent threat to the safety of a critical witness, he may take any appropriate temporary action he determines is necessary to protect the safety of the witness without prior approval of the board. The prosecuting officer shall inform the board of the action taken and the related costs within 48 hours. Any such costs, which would otherwise be in compliance with the rules and regulations established by the board pursuant to section 2, may be reimbursed to the prosecuting officer.
Structure Massachusetts General Laws
Part IV - Crimes, Punishments and Proceedings in Criminal Cases
Title I - Crimes and Punishments
Chapter 263a - Witness Protection in Criminal Matters
Section 2 - Witness Protection Board; Composition; Powers and Duties
Section 3 - Petition Requesting Witness Protection Services
Section 4 - Temporary Action Based on Exigent Circumstances Without Prior Approval by Board
Section 5 - Protective Services Provided to Critical Witnesses; Notice to Defense Counsel
Section 6 - Written Memorandum of Understanding; Persons Required to Sign; Contents
Section 8 - Relocation of Critical Witness Within Public Housing System
Section 9 - Relocation of Critical Witness to Another Public School
Section 10 - Entitlement or Private Right of Action Not Available; Governmental Immunity
Section 11 - Liaison With United States Marshal's Office; Pursuit of Federal Resources and Funding
Section 12 - Confidentiality of Records
Section 13 - Disclosure of Identity or Location of Witness or Other Sensitive Information; Penalties