Rhode Island Criminal Statute of Limitations

Statute: §§ 12-12-17; 12-12-18, et seq.

Summary: The following sets forth a description of a particular crime or infraction, followed by the time period following such crime within which a legal action can be initiated in Rhode Island.  If action is not taken within the stated period below, the victim may potentially lose its right to press charges and the state may no longer be entitled to prosecute:

Felonies:

• Treason against state; homicide, arson, burglary, counterfeiting, forgery, robbery, rape, sexual assault, child molestation, bigamy, manufacturing, selling, distributing or possession of controlled substance, or conspiracy to any of the above: N/A
• Larceny, embezzlement, bribery, extortion, racketeering, antitrust violation, or conspiracy to any of the above: 10 years
• Violations of refuse or hazardous waste disposal or water pollution: 7 years
• Other felonies: 3 years

Misdemeanors:

• 3 years

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