Bill > H5178

This bill amends Rhode Island's criminal record expungement law to allow individuals with multiple non-violent felony convictions to file for expungement of their records after ten years from the completion of their last sentence. Specifically, the bill creates a new provision that permits people with more than one felony conviction to seek expungement, provided they have not been convicted of any violent crimes. Importantly, the bill explicitly excludes certain offenses under Chapter 29 of Title 12 from being eligible for expungement. To be considered for expungement, the applicant must demonstrate good moral character, have no pending criminal proceedings, and have not been convicted or arrested for any felony or misdemeanor during the ten years preceding the motion. The court will have discretion to grant the expungement after a hearing, considering factors such as the petitioner's rehabilitation and whether the expungement is consistent with the public interest. This change aims to provide a path for rehabilitation and reintegration for individuals with multiple non-violent felony convictions, acknowledging that past mistakes should not permanently prevent someone from moving forward with their life.