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East Providence, RI Animal Ordinances: Animal Hoarding (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

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Key Facts

Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws Title 4 Ch. 1
Felony cruelty: § 4-1-5 up to 2 years
Misdemeanor fine: Up to $1,000
Animal seizure: Authorized by court
Enforcement: Police, animal control, RISPCA

Rhode Island state rule: East Providence does not have a local ordinance for animal hoarding. This topic is governed by Rhode Island state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

Rhode Island Title 4 Chapter 1 criminalizes animal cruelty including neglect and unsanitary confinement that constitutes hoarding. Owners must provide adequate food, water, shelter, and care, with violations enforced by local animal control and state authorities.

Full Breakdown

R.I. Gen. Laws § 4-1-2 through § 4-1-5 establish duties of owners and prohibit unnecessary cruelty, including failure to provide proper food, drink, shelter, and protection from weather. Hoarding situations involving overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, or denial of veterinary care fall under these provisions. Aggravated cruelty is a felony under § 4-1-5 carrying up to two years imprisonment. Animals may be seized and forfeited. The statute applies statewide, and Rhode Island law authorizes local police, animal control officers, and the RISPCA to investigate and enforce. Convicted hoarders may face possession bans.

Violations & Fines

Misdemeanor cruelty carries fines up to $1,000 and one year in jail. Aggravated cruelty is a felony with up to two years imprisonment and $1,000 fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is animal hoarding specifically named in Rhode Island law?

Rhode Island prosecutes hoarding under general cruelty and neglect statutes in Title 4 Chapter 1, focusing on inadequate care, unsanitary conditions, and overcrowding rather than a separate hoarding offense.

Can authorities seize animals from a hoarder?

Yes. Under § 4-1-22 and related provisions, courts may order seizure and forfeiture of animals subjected to cruelty or neglect, with owners liable for impoundment costs.

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East Providence, RI Animal Ordinances: Animal Hoarding (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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