Felony Penalties and Charges in Rhode Island
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In Rhode Island, felonies can result in as little as a year in county jail or as much as life in prison. Unlike other states, Rhode Island does not differentiate between Class A and Class B felonies. Instead, Rhode Island has statutes that divide crimes. These degrees establish boundaries within which sentences can be determined, with maximum and minimum time limits for each offense. Sexual offenses are included in many of these degrees.
Offenses involving Assault
There are various degrees of assault offenses. First Degree Sexual Assault is punishable by up to life in prison, with a minimum of ten years. Second Degree Child Molestation Sexual Assault can result in a state prison sentence of no less than six years and no more than thirty years. First Degree Child Molestation and Sexual Assault can result in prison sentences ranging from twenty-five years to life in a state prison.
Crimes Against Nature are punishable by no less than seven years and no more than twenty years in a state facility. Assault with Intent to Commit First Degree Sexual Assault is another degree. This degree can result in a prison sentence of no less than three years and no more than twenty years. Second Degree Sexual Assault carries a maximum prison sentence of fifteen years and a minimum of three years. Third Degree Sexual Assault carries a maximum prison sentence of five years.
Pandering is classified as a separate offense, punishable by imprisonment for no less than one year and no more than five years. In pandering, a fine of no less than two thousand dollars and no more than five thousand dollars is also possible. Indecent Exposure Disorderly Conduct has its own category, with imprisonment terms of no more than one year and fines of no more than $1,000. A single sentence can result in both a fine and a prison sentence.
Expungement of Felony Records in Rhode Island
According to Rhode Island law, a felony conviction may be expunged after ten years of completion of the criminal sentence and probationary period. Other convictions, suspended sentences, fines, and probations cannot be present during the expungement process in these cases. Larceny, robbery, kidnapping with intent to extort, manslaughter, murder, first degree arson, first degree sexual assault, second degree sexual assault, assault with the intent to murder, first degree child molestation, second degree child molestation, burglary, assault with intent to rob, assault with intent to commit first degree assault, and entering a dwelling housing with the intent to commit first degree assault are all prohibited under Rhode Island law.
There are time limits in place for those who are eligible for expungement. Seven years for waste disposal and water pollution violations, ten years for larceny, extortion, etc., no limit for arson, rape, forgery, bigamy, etc., and three years for other offenses.