Rhode Island Animal Cruelty and Hoarding Statute

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.

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.