MA S1182

Evidence discovered during a traffic stop is inadmissible in criminal proceedings if unrelated to the traffic violation, unless the officer had reasonable suspicion or probable cause of a felony or misdemeanor before initiating the stop

The Commonwealth bears the burden of proving by preponderance of evidence that reasonable suspicion or probable cause existed prior to the traffic stop in any motion to suppress

Law enforcement retains authority to issue citations, warnings, and make arrests for traffic violations, but traffic enforcement cannot serve as pretext for investigating unrelated crimes

Individuals subjected to traffic stops violating this section may pursue civil remedies under state or federal law, including injunctive relief and monetary damages