What is the Law for Safe Storage of Firearms in Rhode Island?

On June 13, 2024, Rhode Island passed a law imposing strict safe storage requirements on firearm owners. While the law aimed to prevent gun-related accidents, it also introduced serious penalties for those who fail to comply with safe storage of a firearm. If you have been charged under this new law, it is vital that you have experienced legal representation to protect your firearm rights.

What Does The New Law Require?

R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-60.1 requires that firearms be stored in a locked container OR secured with a tamper resistant locking device when not in the owner’s immediate possession or control. Failure to follow this mandate can result in severe consequences, particularly if an unsecured firearm is accessed by a minor or used unlawfully.

What are the Penalties for Violating the Safe Storage Law in Rhode Island??

Violating Rhode Island’s Safe Storage Law can result in both civil and criminal penalties, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior violations.

What are the Penalties for General Violations of the Safe Storage Law?

• First offense: Civil infraction punishable by a fine of up to two hundred and fifty dollars ($250)
• Second Offense: Civil infraction punishable by a fine of up to one thousand dollars ($1,000)
• Third or subsequent offense: Misdemeanor criminal offense, punishable by imprisonment for up to six (6) months, a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500), or both.

What is Criminal Storage of a Firearm in the Second Degree?

You can be charged with criminal storage of a firearm in the second degree in Rhode Island if you:

• Stored or left a firearm on premises that is under your control and
• Knew or reasonably should have known that a child is likely to gain access to the firearm without the permission of the child’s parent or guardian, or a prohibited person under state or federal law was likely to gain access to the firearm, and
• That a child or prohibited person obtained access to the firearm.

A conviction of Criminal Storage of a Firearm in the Second Degree is a criminal misdemeanor charge and carries penalties of imprisonment for not more than one year, a fine of up to one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both.

What is Criminal Storage of a Firearm in the First Degree in Rhode Island?

A person is guilty of criminal storage of a firearm in the first degree if they commit the crime of Criminal Storage of a Firearm in the Second Degree and the firearm obtained by a child or prohibited person is:

• Used in the commission of a crime, or
• Used to cause injury to themselves or another person.

A conviction for Criminal Storage of a Firearm in the First Degree is a felony criminal charge that carries a penalty of imprisonment for up to five (5) years, a fine of up to five thousand dollars ($5,000), or both.

What Should I Do If I am Charged With Unsafe Storage of a Firearm?

If you are charged with a violation of Rhode Island’s safe storage of a Firearm charge, you can reach out to the attorneys at Ellison Law LLC who have extensive experience defending clients accused of firearm-related offenses. If you hire us, we will:

1. Assess the circumstances of your case to determine the best legal strategy
2. Challenge improper law enforcement procedures of violations of your rights
3. Advocate for reduced penalties or case dismissals where possible

If you’re dealing with a firearm related charge, you do not have to face the charges alone, you can have legal representation from an experienced Rhode Island criminal defense attorney who can help protect your rights to achieve the best possible outcome. Contact Ellison Law LLC’s experienced criminal defense lawyers today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case at 401-230-5520.