Weapons Offenses in Rhode Island
If you find yourself facing weapons charges in the State of Rhode Island, then you will need to obtain the help of a good weapons attorney to navigate the complex legal system relating to firearms and weapons. In the State of Rhode Island, if a person possesses an illegal weapon or uses an illegal weapon during the commission of a crime, he or she may face weapons charges. Illegal weapons include, but are not limited to:
- Guns
- Knives
- Explosive Devices
- Shocking Devices
If you have been charged with a Rhode Island Weapons Offense you could be facing serious prison time and even life imprisonment. It is crucial to seek the legal counsel of an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options and develop a case against your charges.
Rhode Island Weapons Offense Penalties
There are a myriad of penalties a person could face when charged with a weapons offense, which carry various harsh penalties. According to State of Rhode Island Section 11-47-3
§ 11-47-3 Carrying dangerous weapons or substances when committing crime of violence. – No person shall commit or attempt to commit a crime of violence when armed with or having available any firearm, explosive substance, noxious liquid, gas or substance, or acid. Every person violating the provisions of this section shall be punished: (1) for the first conviction by imprisonment for not less than three (3) nor more than ten (10) years; (2) for a second conviction under this section by imprisonment for not less than ten (10) nor more than twenty (20) years; and (3) for a third or subsequent conviction the person convicted shall be sentenced to not less than fifteen (15) years to life imprisonment. For the penalties provided in this section he or she shall not be afforded the provisions of suspension or deferment of sentence, nor of probation.
Possession of a Weapon
Rhode Island uses a separate set of statutes to govern penalties not involving firearms. By law, Rhode Island classifies these weapons offenses under three separate penalties: possession of more minor weapons, possession with intent, and concealing a weapon.
Posession of a Minor Weapon
The first category of weapons offense is the possession of specific types of weapons. These weapons include:
- Blackjack
- Slingshot
- Billy Club
- Sand Club
- Sand Bag
- Metal Knuckles
- Slap Glove
- Bludgeon
- Stun-Gun
- Kung-Fu Weapons
Possession of a Weapon With Intent
The second weapons offense category involves the possession of a weapon with intent to use it against someone unlawfully. Weapons under this category include:
- Daggers
- Dirk
- Stiletto
- Sword-in Cane
- Bowie Knife
Concealing a Weapon
The last classification of weapons offense involves concealing certain types of weapons. Weapons under this category include:
- All weapons mentioned in the first two classifications
- Any blade or razor more than three inches in length
For more information on Rhode Island’s weapons laws, visit the State of Rhode Island’s General Laws Chapter 11-47.
Contact Rhode Island Gun Defense Lawyer Susan T. Perkins
If you or someone you know has been charged with a Weapons Related Offense, it is mission critical that your contact Rhode Island Weapons Offense Lawyer Susan T. Perkins as soon as possible. Attorney Perkins has extensive experience defending clients facing weapons charges and a track record of success. Call (401) 324-2990 today for a FREE consultation of your case.