Rhode Island § 11-20-3 - Graves and Corpses
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 11-20-3 — Graves and Corpses, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 11-20-3. Graves and Corpses
R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-20-3
§ 11-20-3. Removal of marker on veteran’s grave.
(a) Every person who maliciously or without authorization removes an American Flag in the vicinity of a veteran’s grave or from a flag staff in a cemetery shall be imprisoned not exceeding sixty (60) days or fined not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100).
(b) Every person who shall, without right, remove from any grave a marker that was authorized to be placed by the cemetery to designate that the grave was the grave of a deceased veteran shall be imprisoned not exceeding one hundred and twenty (120) days or fined not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500) for a first offense, and shall be imprisoned not exceeding one hundred and twenty (120) days or fined not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000) for a second offense.
(c) Every person, firm, partnership or corporation who shall purchase, sell or destroy any veteran’s grave marker shall be subject to the same penalties provided in subsection (b) of this section.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 279, § 46; G.L. 1909, ch. 345, § 49; G.L. 1923, ch. 397, § 49; G.L.
1938, ch. 608, § 49; G.L. 1956, § 11-20-3; P.L. 1982, ch. 219, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch.
490, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 66, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 6.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 11-20-3
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 11-20-3 cover?
Section 11-20-3 ("Graves and Corpses") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 11-20-3?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 11-20-3" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 11-20-3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.