Bill > H5647

This bill expands the eligibility for criminal record expungement in Rhode Island by allowing individuals with multiple felony and misdemeanor convictions to petition for expungement under certain conditions. The bill modifies existing law to create a new pathway for people with more extensive criminal records to have their records cleared, provided they meet specific criteria. Key provisions include allowing those with multiple felonies and/or misdemeanors to file for expungement after ten years from completing their last sentence, with exceptions for certain offenses like violent crimes and specific traffic violations. To be eligible, the petitioner must demonstrate good moral character, which the court will evaluate by considering factors such as employment, family ties, community involvement, and overall progress since conviction. The court will conduct a hearing and have discretion to grant expungement based on the petitioner's rehabilitation and whether clearing the record is consistent with public interest. The bill requires that the person have no pending criminal proceedings, no new convictions, and have paid all court-related fees or had them waived. Importantly, no single factor will be determinative in assessing good moral character, and the judge may request a review of the person's probation or parole file before making a final decision.

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