Resisting Arrest Charges – Olin College of Engineering

Student Criminal Defense Lawyer – Dedham District Court

A resisting arrest charge can arise quickly and unexpectedly for Olin College students, often during stressful or confusing situations involving police. Under Massachusetts law, you do not need to strike or injure an officer to be charged. Pulling away, hesitating, or misunderstanding commands can still lead to criminal prosecution and serious academic consequences.

Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent Olin College students charged with resisting arrest in Dedham District Court and during related campus conduct proceedings. Early legal representation is essential to protecting your criminal record, education, and future.

Wellesley, MA Office
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442

What Is Resisting Arrest Under Massachusetts Law?

Resisting arrest is governed by M.G.L. c. 268 § 32B. A student may be charged if police believe they knowingly attempted to prevent an officer from making a lawful arrest.

This can include allegations of:

Pulling away or tensing arms during handcuffing
Fleeing or walking away when officers attempt an arrest
Refusing to comply with commands during an arrest situation

Resisting arrest charges are often added to underlying allegations such as disorderly conduct, alcohol-related offenses, or campus disturbances.

Common Situations Leading to Student Arrests

I frequently represent Olin College students accused of resisting arrest in situations involving:

Alcohol-related incidents that escalate quickly
Party shutdowns or noise complaints near campus
Miscommunication between students and law enforcement
Panic, fear, or confusion during police encounters

What feels like a brief misunderstanding can rapidly turn into a criminal charge with lasting consequences.

Criminal Penalties for Resisting Arrest in Massachusetts

Resisting arrest is a misdemeanor offense, but the penalties are serious:

Up to 2.5 years in jail
Probation, fines, or community service
A permanent entry on your CORI record

Most Olin College student cases are prosecuted in Dedham District Court. Even without jail time, a conviction can affect employment, graduate school applications, and professional opportunities.

Olin College Code of Conduct & Disciplinary Action

Olin College enforces its Honor Code and student conduct policies independently of the criminal courts. Even if your resisting arrest charge is dismissed or resolved favorably, the college may still impose discipline.

Potential consequences include:

Disciplinary probation or suspension
Loss of campus housing or leadership positions
A permanent conduct record

Campus hearings use a lower standard of proof than criminal court, making coordinated legal and academic defense critical.

FAQs – Resisting Arrest Charges

Can I be charged even if I was not violent?
Yes. Physical violence is not required. Even minimal resistance or failure to comply may lead to charges.

What if I was scared or confused?
Fear, panic, or unclear commands may be valid defense issues and should be addressed immediately.

Will this affect my academic future at Olin?
It can. Criminal charges often trigger conduct proceedings that may impact enrollment and housing.

Defense Strategies for Olin College Students

Me and my team defend resisting arrest cases by:

Demonstrating lack of intent due to confusion or misunderstanding
Challenging whether officers gave clear and lawful arrest commands
Reviewing body camera footage or video evidence
Working to secure dismissals, charge reductions, or pretrial resolutions
Representing students during Olin College conduct hearings

Our goal is to minimize both criminal exposure and academic consequences.

Why Olin College Students Hire the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett

Students trust me and my team because we provide:

Extensive experience defending college students in criminal cases
Regular representation in Dedham District Court
A strategic, discreet approach focused on protecting your future

I understand how quickly a single incident can jeopardize years of hard work.

Contact the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett Today

If you or your student is facing a resisting arrest charge connected to Olin College, do not wait to seek legal guidance.

Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Wellesley, MA Office
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442

Early intervention can make the difference between a manageable outcome and long-term consequences. Let me help you protect your record, your education, and your future.

Resisting Arrest Charges Defense for Olin College of Engineering Students - Kensley Barrett Law