1.5.3 Suspension By The Grand Master

The Grand Master may, in his sole discretion, suspend a Mason who has been convicted of a crime or who has pleaded guilty thereto in a civil court of competent jurisdiction upon the same being brought to his attention. Provided, however, that no Mason shall be suspended based upon any basis for longer than one hundred and eighty-six (186) days, in its entirety, or until the Mason has been tried to a final verdict, whichever shall first occur.
For the purpose of this section only, a plea of nolo contenders, followed by the imposition of a period of probation, shall be a sufficient basis for the Grand Master to suspend a Mason hereunder even if such does not constitute a conviction under civil law.
Such suspension may be imposed or not in the sole discretion of the Grand Master. However, any suspension so imposed shall specifically allow the suspended Mason to engage in Masonic communication for the purpose of defending himself against any charge of unmasonic conduct including any charge upon which the suspension is based and all Brethren shall be under an affirmative duty to assist a Mason accused of unmasonic conduct in his defense thereof.
In addition to the foregoing power of suspension, a Grand Master may suspend any Mason for unmasonic conduct upon his own motion and without the necessity of the Mason having been convicted of a crime. In such case, the Grand Master must notify the Secretary of the suspended Mason's subordinate lodge, which notice shall be treated as if it were an Allegation. The Master of the subordinate lodge shall forthwith investigate the basis of such suspension and the results of such investigation shall be referred to the subordinate lodge's Junior Warden to determine whether a Complaint should be filed against such suspended Mason.