Failure to respond to a request for records within five working days constitutes a violation of law. Also, withholding records that are not exempt and overcharging for records are violations of the law. Violations can result in civil penalties up to $2500 per violation to the individual employee and/or the Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

Departments and individuals who are not responsive, delay, and/or withhold information for release will receive a letter of non-compliance from the FOIA Officer which will be sent to the Commonwealth’s Attorney for record, review and action. Failure to respond by an employee will be considered as a reason to discipline.