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Rhode Island law addresses both untraceable 'ghost guns' and firearms with altered identification marks. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-24, changing or removing a firearm's serial number or identification marks is a serious offense, and ghost guns are separately banned under § 11-47-8(e).
These cases often involve forensic questions about the firearm itself. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review the evidence and how the law applies.
Under § 11-47-24, altering, removing, or obliterating a firearm's maker, model, or serial/identification marks — or knowingly possessing such a firearm without recertification — can be punished by imprisonment for up to five years, and possession of an altered firearm is treated as prima facie evidence. Separately, § 11-47-8(e) bans manufacturing, selling, transferring, purchasing, possessing, or controlling ghost guns, undetectable firearms, and 3D-printed firearms, with penalties of up to ten years.
Statutes and penalties can change, and federal law may also apply. An attorney can confirm the current statute and how it applies to your specific charge.
Every firearm case turns on its own facts. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review your charge and explain your options in plain English.
For an altered-marks charge, the state generally must show that the firearm's identification marks were changed or removed and, for a possession theory, that you knowingly possessed such a firearm. For a ghost-gun charge, the question is whether the firearm meets the statutory definition. The 'prima facie' provision and what you knew can both be central.
No outcome can be guaranteed. The right approach depends on the specific facts; an attorney can review how the law may apply to your situation.
The penalties for a firearm conviction can be severe. The sooner you have an attorney, the more can often be done to protect your rights.
Firearm cases often turn on how the weapon was found and whether police followed proper procedure. Speaking with an attorney early can help protect your rights, preserve evidence and arguments such as a motion to challenge a search, prepare you for court, and avoid missteps that can affect the outcome.
Yes. Section 11-47-8(e) bans ghost guns, undetectable firearms, and 3D-printed firearms, with limited exceptions for certain federally licensed manufacturers. Penalties can reach ten years.
Knowledge can be a key issue. Although possession of an altered firearm is treated as prima facie evidence under section 11-47-24, what you actually knew can still matter to the defense.
Every case is different. Depending on the evidence, the legality of any search, and the facts, some charges may be challenged, reduced, or resolved another way. No outcome can be guaranteed; an attorney can review whether any options may apply.
You are generally not required to discuss the facts of your case with police without an attorney. It is usually wise to speak with a criminal defense attorney before answering questions.
A firearm conviction can affect your firearm rights under state and federal law. The specific impact depends on the conviction; an attorney can explain how a particular charge may affect you.
Bring any paperwork you received, such as the police report or arrest summary, your court notice or summons, bail paperwork, and anything related to the firearm. These help an attorney understand your situation quickly.
Related firearm charge pages for more help:
Criminal defense by Rhode Island county:
Speak with Attorney Leah J. Boisclair about your situation. Consultations are confidential, and early guidance can make a real difference.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Rhode Island criminal laws can change, and the outcome of any case depends on the specific facts and circumstances. If you are facing a criminal charge, speak with a qualified Rhode Island criminal defense attorney about your situation.