The bill amends Chapter 14-1 of the General Laws by introducing a new section, 14-1-30.3, which establishes guidelines for the custodial interrogation of juveniles by peace officers, including school resource officers. It explicitly prohibits the use of threats, physical harm, deprivation, deception, coercion, or psychologically manipulative tactics during such interrogations. The bill defines key terms related to these prohibited tactics, including "coercion," "deception," "deprivation," and "psychologically manipulative interrogation tactics," providing detailed descriptions of each.
Additionally, any statement obtained through the prohibited methods will not form the basis of any further investigative activities, and any evidence obtained as a result of such statements will be considered tainted and presumed inadmissible in criminal or juvenile court proceedings. The presumption of inadmissibility may be overcome only if the state proves beyond a reasonable doubt that the confession or incriminating statements were given free from the prohibited tactics, with the burden of proof resting on the state. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, reinforcing legal protections for juveniles during interrogations and ensuring their rights are upheld in the justice system.