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Stealing a firearm is treated as a serious felony in Rhode Island. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-5.1, larceny of a firearm carries significant prison exposure, with even harsher penalties when the firearm is then sold or transferred.
These cases often turn on identity and intent. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review the evidence behind the allegation.
Under § 11-47-5.1, stealing a firearm is a felony punishable by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than ten years. If the firearm is then sold, lent, or transferred, the penalty increases to ten to twenty years, served consecutively to any other sentence. (Air, BB, and blank guns are excluded from this section.)
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.
The state generally must prove that you took a firearm belonging to another with the intent to deprive the owner of it. For the enhanced penalty, the state must also show a subsequent sale, loan, or transfer. Identity and intent are often 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.
It is a felony under section 11-47-5.1, with one to ten years for the theft and ten to twenty years if the firearm is then sold or transferred. Early legal help is important.
Identity and intent are often the central issues. The state must prove you took the firearm with intent to deprive the owner; weaknesses in that proof can be important 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.