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SD 1768

An Act prohibiting deception in juvenile interrogations

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sal DiDomenico

Massachusetts bill prohibits police from using deceptive tactics during juvenile interrogations to reduce false confessions and wrongful convictions of minors.

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Bill Summary · SD 1768

Legislative bill overview

SD 1768 would prohibit law enforcement from using deceptive interrogation tactics when questioning juveniles under 18 years old. The bill restricts practices such as misrepresenting evidence, fabricating witness statements, or falsely claiming test results to extract confessions during police interviews.

Why is this important

Research shows juveniles are more susceptible to false confessions due to developmental factors affecting judgment and resistance to authority. Deceptive interrogation tactics have contributed to wrongful convictions, particularly among minors, making this a public safety and justice system integrity issue.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement concerns: Police argue that deception restrictions may limit investigative tools needed to solve crimes and that juveniles can still distinguish truth from falsehoods
  • Implementation challenges: Defining what constitutes "deception" versus standard investigative questioning, and determining enforcement mechanisms and remedies
  • Scope ambiguity: Whether the prohibition applies equally to all interrogation settings and whether exceptions exist for serious crimes or public safety situations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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