Section 6. Whoever attempts to commit a crime by doing any act toward its commission, but fails in its perpetration, or is intercepted or prevented in its perpetration, shall, except as otherwise provided, be punished as follows:
First, by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than ten years, if he attempts to commit a crime punishable with death.
Second, by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than five years or in a jail or house of correction for not more than two and one half years, if he attempts to commit a crime, except any larceny under section thirty of chapter two hundred and sixty-six, punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for life or for five years or more.
Third, by imprisonment in a jail or house of correction for not more than one year or by a fine of not more than three hundred dollars, if he attempts to commit a crime, except any larceny under said section thirty, punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for less than five years or by imprisonment in a jail or house of correction or by a fine.
Fourth, by imprisonment in a jail or house of correction for not more than two and one half years or by a fine, or by both such fine and imprisonment, if he attempts to commit any larceny punishable under said section thirty.
Structure Massachusetts General Laws
Part IV - Crimes, Punishments and Proceedings in Criminal Cases
Title I - Crimes and Punishments
Chapter 274 - Felonies, Accessories and Attempts to Commit Crimes
Section 1 - Felonies and Misdemeanors
Section 2 - Aiders; Accessories Before Fact; Punishment
Section 5 - Felon's Conviction or Amenability to Justice; Venue
Section 6 - Attempts to Commit Crimes; Punishment
Section 7 - Conspiracy; Penalties
Section 8 - Solicitation, Counsel, Advice or Enticement of Crime; Penalties