Tim Whelan
HYANNIS – State Representative Tim Whelan is co-sponsoring a bill that is aimed at taking those under the influence of drugs into police protective custody.
The current law allows police to take someone into protective custody for up to 12 hours only if they are too intoxicated to conduct themselves safely.
Whelan says it’s different if police find someone who is under the influence of drugs.
“Under the current statute, if they come across someone who is incapacitated because they took narcotics, the police officer can only suggest to them and try to talk to them about seeking medical attention, and if the ambulance arrives, the person has the right to sign off and refuse medical treatment,” said Whelan.
If approved after a committee hearing, the bill could become law by the end of the legislative session in December 2016.
Whelan says this bill will help save lives.
“This is an important piece, this is a life saving piece, it gives first responders, police officers another tool that they can use in trying to protect people,” said Whelan.
