Rhode Island § 4-1-20 - Cruelty to Animals
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-20 — Cruelty to Animals, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4-1-20. Cruelty to Animals
R.I. Gen. Laws § 4-1-20
§ 4-1-20. Duty of police officers — Fines paid to society for prevention of cruelty to animals.
Any deputy sheriff, town constable, or police officer shall prosecute all violations of this chapter that come to his or her knowledge and all fines and forfeitures resulting from the complaint of any officer or agent of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals under this chapter, shall enure and be paid over to the society in aid of the benevolent objects for which it was incorporated.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 114, § 8; G.L., ch. 283, § 15, as enacted by P.L. 1901, ch. 848, §
1; G.L. 1909, ch. 138, § 8; ch. 349, § 19; G.L. 1923, ch. 141, § 8; ch. 401, § 19;
G.L. 1938, ch. 612, § 19; ch. 640, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 4-1-20; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, §
10; P.L. 2015, ch. 260, § 2; P.L. 2015, ch. 275, § 2.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 4-1-20
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-20 cover?
Section 4-1-20 ("Cruelty to Animals") 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 § 4-1-20?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-20" (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 § 4-1-20 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.