Rhode Island General Laws Title 7. Corporations, Associations, and Partnerships § 7-11-604. Criminal penalties

(a) A person who willfully violates a provision of this chapter, except § 7-11-504, or a rule of the director under this chapter, or who violates § 7-11-504, knowing the statement made or omitted to be false or misleading in any material respect, is guilty of a felony and upon conviction is fined not more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) or imprisoned not more than ten (10) years, or both.

(b) A person who willfully violates a stop order or a cease and desist order issued by the director under this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and is fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000) or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both.

(c) A person convicted of violating a rule or order under this chapter may be fined as stated in subsection (b), but may not be imprisoned, if the person proves lack of knowledge of the rule or order.

(d) No indictment or information may be brought under this section more than ten (10) years after the alleged violation.

(e) The director may refer evidence concerning violations of this chapter or a rule or order of the director under this chapter to the attorney general who may, with or without a reference, institute appropriate criminal proceedings under this chapter.

(f) Nothing in this chapter limits the power of this state to punish a person for conduct constituting a crime under other law.