Call or Text For A Consultation
(401) 602-9367
Rhode Island restricts who may possess body armor. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-20.4, a person who has been convicted of a felony crime of violence is generally prohibited from purchasing, owning, or possessing body armor.
If you are facing this charge, the questions often include whether the item meets the legal definition of body armor and whether a prior conviction qualifies. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review the specifics of your situation.
Under § 11-47-20.4, possession of body armor (bullet-resistant covering) by a person convicted of a felony crime of violence can be punished by imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The statute provides limited affirmative defenses, such as certain employment or law-enforcement circumstances.
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 show that you possessed an item meeting the statutory definition of body armor and that you fall within the prohibited category — typically a prior felony crime-of-violence conviction. Whether an affirmative defense applies can also 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.
Body armor is not banned for everyone. Under section 11-47-20.4, the prohibition applies to people convicted of a felony crime of violence. Whether it applies to you depends on your record and the facts.
Rhode Island defines 'crime of violence' in section 11-47-2 and it includes many serious felonies. An attorney can review whether a particular prior conviction qualifies.
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.