Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Massachusetts

Police told me not to go to Public Cemetery...why?

There is a boy in my hometown (pop.14,000) that was a role model for me, and sadly he died in a car crash at age 17. I visit his grave, maybe twice a week, to talk, to feel spiritual, and to stay sane in this busy world we live in. Much to my surprise, the boy's family has seen me there and has complained to the town police that they don't want me there and to stop leaving flowers. The police relayed this info to me, and then the police advised me not to go into the cemetery at all, even to see other people!

My main question is...Is this legal to prevent a person from driving into a public cemetery? I understand if the boy's family feels territorial about their family plot, but how can the police prevent me from even physically driving onto the public cemetery grounds? It's a good-sized cemetery too, so if the boy's family is there I can just keep my distance easily.

Confused in Massachusetts


Asked on 3/29/04, 5:11 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Nance Lyons Law Office of Nance Lyons

Re: Police told me not to go to Public Cemetery...why?

The police were making a recommendation. You cannot be barred from the cemetary. If the police take further action, you should file a complaint with the Chief. You may also decide to institute a lawsuit if barred from the cemetary merely for visinging a grave. If youhave engaged in disruptive behavior, the police may have a right to act.

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Answered on 3/31/04, 12:47 pm


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