Rhode Island § 11-18-26 - Fraud and False Dealing
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 11-18-26 — Fraud and False Dealing, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 11-18-26. Fraud and False Dealing
R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-18-26
§ 11-18-26. Obtaining food or accommodations with intent to defraud.
(a) Every person who shall obtain credit or accommodation at any hotel, inn, restaurant, boarding house, or lodging house by means of any false pretense, or who, with intent to defraud the proprietor, or the proprietor’s agent or servant, obtains any credit or accommodation at a hotel, inn, restaurant, boarding house or lodging house, without paying, shall be fined not exceeding twenty dollars ($20.00) or be imprisoned not exceeding thirty (30) days.
(b) Proof that lodging, food or other accommodation was obtained by false or fictitious showing or pretense of baggage, or that the person refused or neglected to pay for the food, lodging, or other accommodation, or removed or caused to be removed his or her baggage from the premises, without paying for the food, lodging, or other accommodation, shall be presumptive evidence of the fraudulent intent referred to in subsection (a) of this section; but this provision shall not apply where there has been a special agreement for delay in payment.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 279, § 51; G.L. 1909, ch. 345, § 54; G.L. 1923, ch. 397, § 54; P.L.
1927, ch. 1047, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 608, § 62; G.L. 1956, § 11-18-26.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 11-18-26
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 11-18-26 cover?
Section 11-18-26 ("Fraud and False Dealing") 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 § 11-18-26?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 11-18-26" (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 § 11-18-26 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.