Rhode Island § 5-11-12 - Hawkers and Peddlers
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 5-11-12 — Hawkers and Peddlers, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-11-12. Hawkers and Peddlers
R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-11-12
§ 5-11-12. Arrest of violators — Detention of merchandise.
Any state police officer, any police officer of any city or town who has probable cause to believe a person has violated the provisions of this chapter, and any deputy sheriff, town sergeant, or town constable within his or her precinct who has probable cause to believe a person has violated the provisions of this chapter, may arrest that person, and may also detain any goods, wares, or other merchandise that the arrested person has with him or her at the time of his or her arrest, for the purpose of hawking and peddling; and the arresting officer detaining the goods, wares, or merchandise shall be allowed a reasonable compensation for the safekeeping and care of the merchandise and property, to be taxed in the costs of prosecution and conviction for the offense.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 162, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 191, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 219, § 2; G.L. 1938,
ch. 365, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 5-11-12; P.L. 1987, ch. 86, § 2; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, §
12; P.L. 2015, ch. 260, § 4; P.L. 2015, ch. 275, § 4.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 5-11-12
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 5-11-12 cover?
Section 5-11-12 ("Hawkers and Peddlers") 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 § 5-11-12?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 5-11-12" (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 § 5-11-12 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.