Rhode Island Criminal Statute of Limitations Laws

Every state, including Rhode Island, has laws dictating how long the state has to file charges against a would-be defendant. These laws are statutes of limitations. The criminal statute of limitations starts when the offender commits the crime. But the courts may pause the "clock" if the suspect tries to evade law enforcement or lives out of state.

The Rhode Island General Laws impose these time limits to help preserve the integrity of the criminal justice system. If the state had no deadline to file charges for a criminal offense, evidence, including witness testimony, would become stale and less reliable.

Every crime has a statute of limitations, but the time limit depends on the severity of the crime (felony or misdemeanor). Some crimes, such as murder, have no statute of limitations.

Here, we'll explain how Rhode Island's criminal statutes of limitations work and the filing deadlines for the most common offenses. We will also explain what happens if the state fails to pursue criminal charges before the statute of limitations period expires. If you're facing criminal charges, contact a criminal defense lawyer right away.

Rhode Island Criminal Statutes of Limitations at a Glance

As stated above, Rhode Island's rules of criminal procedure impose no statute of limitations for certain crimes.

Code sections

R.I. Gen. Laws §12-12-17

Felonies

Besides to the crimes listed above, the following criminal offenses have no statute of limitations:

  • Treason against the state
  • Forgery
  • First-degree sexual assault
  • Bigamy
  • Manufacturing, selling, distributing, or possessing s controlled substance

There is no filing deadline for any criminal case involving a crime carrying a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The same is true for conspiracy to commit any of the above crimes.

The following crimes have a 10-year statute of limitation:

  • Larceny
  • Receiving stolen goods
  • Embezzlement
  • Fraudulent conversion
  • Getting a signature by false pretenses
  • Bribery
  • Extortion
  • Racketeering
  • Exploitation of an elder
  • Unlawful appropriation
  • Giving a false financial statement to get a loan or credit, bank or residential mortgage fraud, or conspiracy to any of the above

Other Felonies:

  • Second- and third-degree sexual assault: Three years
  • Most other charges: Three years
Misdemeanors

The state must file most misdemeanor charges within three years.

Crimes against children

First- and second-degree child molestation, sexual assault: No time limit

Acts during which statute does not run

The suspect is trying to evade law enforcement or living out of state

Other

Theft, loss, or destruction of indictment or information — Extends limitation period one year (R.I. Gen. Laws §12-12-18)

Disclaimer: State laws are constantly changing through higher court decisions, new legislation, and other means. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these pages, you should contact a Rhode Island criminal defense attorney or conduct legal research to verify your state laws.

Contact a Rhode Island Criminal Defense Attorney for Help

Contact a skilled criminal defense lawyer if you're facing criminal charges in Rhode Island. They'll ensure that the state handles your case correctly and doesn't try to charge you for crimes beyond the statute of limitations.

Research the Law

Rhode Island Criminal Statute of Limitations: Related Resources

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