Crime and the justice system

Cyber crime affects all of us and comes in all shapes and sizes. From cyber stalking and child enticement and exploitation to online gambling and hacking, explore the different types here. Then follow these simple tips to keep you and your family safe online. You will not only be keeping your personal assets and information secure, but also helping to prevent cyber crime and improve the overall security of cyberspace.

Wondering what the gun laws for Massachusetts residents and non-residents are? This summary of state laws on the purchase, possession, carrying, storage, and licensing of firearms highlights key points, answers frequently asked questions, offers information for firearm dealers, and provides downloadable applications and forms.

Wondering what a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check is and what it entails? Or what the difference is between probation and parole? The answers are here. Also find inmates or offenders in county jails and state correctional facilities, obtain information on sentencing, parole, probation, sex offenders, visitor dress code requirements, and more.

The Department of Youth Services (DYS) under the Executive Office of Health and Human Services provides custodial care and rehabilitation for the state’s children who are incarcerated, on probation or parole, or in community placement for a criminal offense. Learn how DYS, the Juvenile Court Department, and national and state Juvenile Justice and Child Welfare organizations work together to protect the public and reclaim juveniles through prevention, education, and rehabilitative services.

Find contact information for your local police department, your county sheriff, and state police ( by troop). Search sheriffs by county map, name, city/town, or complete listing. Included are county sheriff biographies. Select a state police barracks to view information about it, including a map of the cities and towns patrolled by that barracks.

These step-by-step guidelines are designed to help judges, prosecutors, defense counsel, probation personnel, and others concerned with fairness and balance when sentencing a convicted defendant.

When cases are started in Massachusetts courts, they are brought to the trial court. If you sue a contractor for putting a leaky roof on your house, you go to trial court. The trial court is further subdivided into 7 departments, each geared to handle particular kinds of cases — although many of these courts share jurisdiction with the other trial courts. For example if you are getting a divorce or think you have money coming to you via a will, you may bring your case to the Probate and Family Court Department. However, the majority of cases at the trial court level go to either what are called "district courts" or to "superior courts.

Victims have no choice in becoming victims and may find themselves alone, helpless, and without resources. Learn about the programs and services Massachusetts offers to victims of rape, juvenile crime, child abuse, and violent and non-violent crimes. Also explore the MOVA Help Directory where you’ll find resources throughout Massachusetts for victims of crime, their families, and the professionals who serve them.