Rhode Island § 4-1-18 - Cruelty to Animals
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-18 — Cruelty to Animals, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4-1-18. Cruelty to Animals
R.I. Gen. Laws § 4-1-18
§ 4-1-18. Arrest of violators without warrant — Care of animals.
Any person violating this chapter may be arrested on view and held without a warrant; provided, that an arrest or detention without warrant shall not continue longer than twenty-four (24) hours; and the person making an arrest, with or without a warrant, shall use reasonable diligence to give notice to the owner of animals found in the charge or custody of the person arrested, and shall properly care and provide for those animals until the owner shall take charge of them, provided the owner shall do so within thirty (30) days from the date of the notice. The person making an arrest shall have a lien on those animals for the expense of their care and provision.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 114, § 5; P.L. 1898, ch. 548, § 2; P.L. 1900, ch. 747, § 1; G.L. 1909,
ch. 138, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 141, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 640, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 4-1-18.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 4-1-18
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-18 cover?
Section 4-1-18 ("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 § 4-1-18?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 4-1-18" (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 § 4-1-18 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.