hode Island’s Most Shocking Criminal Laws
Every state has strange or outdated criminal laws, and Rhode Island is no exception. Some of these rules may surprise you, and it’s possible to break them without realizing it. Here are five of Rhode Island’s most shocking criminal laws.
Obscene Telephone Calls
Think twice before sending a suggestive or threatening message. Rhode Island law 11-35-17 makes it a misdemeanor to use a telephone or telecommunication device to send “threatening, vulgar, indecent, obscene, or immoral language.” Violators face up to $500 in fines or one year in jail.
Adultery
Rhode Island statute 11-6-2 makes cheating on your spouse a crime. A spouse caught having sexual intercourse outside their marriage can face fines of up to $500. This is one of the more surprising shocking criminal laws still on the books.
Failing to Return a Library Book
Under law 11-41-14, not returning a library book within 60 days of an overdue notice is a misdemeanor. You could face a $25 fine plus any library fees. Supporting your local library is great—but keep track of due dates!
Failing to Help in an Emergency
Rhode Island is one of the few states that criminalizes inaction during emergencies. Law 11-56-1 requires anyone at the scene of someone in grave danger to provide reasonable help if it’s safe to do so. Violators may face up to six months in jail, a $500 fine, or both.
Horse Racing on Highways
If you want to test your horse’s speed, stick to a pasture. Rhode Island law 11-22-11 prohibits racing horses on public highways. Violators risk fines of up to $20 and up to 10 days in jail.
Need Legal Help?
If you face charges under any of these or other unusual statutes, contact the Rhode Island criminal defense lawyers at Inman & Tourgee online or call (401) 823-9200.. These shocking criminal laws may seem outdated, but breaking them can still have serious consequences.
