Requirements Governing the Use of K-9 Units
Effective Jan 6, 2023Mass. Register #1486MGL c. 123 MGL c. 124, § 1(b), (c), and (q) MGL c. 127, §§ 33 and 118 MGL c. 140, § 131J MGL c. 268 St. 2018, c. 69Massachusetts Department of Correction
- (1) The Department shall maintain a public policy, consistent with 103 CMR 505.00, containing the requirements governing the use of K-9 Units, titled 103 DOC 558, K-9 Units.
- (2) The Department utilizes specially trained canines, working with trained K-9 officers who are subject to the supervision of the K-9 Unit Commander. There are several K-9 Units and, with the exception of the K-9 Patrol Unit, they are used for contraband detection. The use of canines is governed by the Department’s K-9 policy.
- (3) Canines, when used to physically apprehend, impede, or subdue an inmate, shall constitute a use of force.
- (4) The K-9 Patrol Unit shall not enter a correctional institution without prior permission from the Commissioner and may only be used in order to regain control during a major disorder. The Commissioner’s permission shall not preclude an inmate from filing a complaint alleging excessive force, which shall be investigated by the Professional Standards Unit under 505.21(3).
- (5) Only K-9 Units approved by the Commissioner shall be used within any correctional institution.