2009 Rhode Island Code
Title 31 - Motor and Other vehicles
CHAPTER 31-48 - Motor Vehicle Chop Shop, Stolen and Altered Property
§ 31-48-4 - Seizure.

SECTION 31-48-4

   § 31-48-4  Seizure. – (a) Any tool, implement, or instrumentality, including, but not limited to, a motor vehicle or motor vehicle part, used or possessed in connection with any violation of § 31-48-3 may be seized by a member of a state or local law enforcement agency upon process issued by any court of competent jurisdiction.

   (b) Seizure of property described in subsection (a) of this section may be made by a member of a state or local law enforcement agency without process:

   (1) If in accordance with any applicable law or regulation;

   (2) If the seizure is incident to inspection under an administrative inspection warrant;

   (3) If the seizure is incident to search made under a search warrant;

   (4) If the seizure is incident to a lawful arrest;

   (5) If the seizure is made pursuant to a valid consent to search;

   (6) If the property seized has been the subject of a prior judgment in favor of the state in a criminal proceeding, or in an injunction or forfeiture proceeding under § 31-48-6; or

   (7) If there are reasonable grounds to believe that the property is directly or indirectly dangerous to health or safety.

   (c) When property is seized under this section, the seizing agency may:

   (1) Lock and secure the property at its location; or

   (2) Remove the property to a place selected and designated by the seizing agency.