As reported by Tatiana Pina in the June 3, 2014 edition of the Providence Journal, a South Kingstown man has been arrested and charged with social host violations, i.e. providing alcohol to minors. The man, a parent, hosted an after prom party at his home where alcohol was served to teenagers. An eighteen (18) year old girl was transported to the hospital for treatment. Over twenty (20) minors were found on the premises.
Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 3-8-11.1,procuring or providing alcohol to minors is defined as (1) "furnish" means to provide with, supply, give or purchase; (2) "procure" means to get possession of, obtain by particular care and effort; and (3) "permit" means to give permission for, or approval of, the possession or consumption of an alcoholic beverage by any form of conduct.
The law states it is unlawful for any person twenty-one (21) years of age or older:
(3) to knowingly furnish any alcoholic beverage for the sale, delivery, service of or giving to any person who has not reached his or her twenty-first (21st) birthday;
(4) to procure alcoholic beverages for the sale, delivery, service of or giving to any person who has not reached his or her twenty-first (21st) birthday; or
(5) to otherwise permit the consumption of alcohol by underaged persons in his or her residence or on his or her real property.
If convicted, the penalties include a fine of not less than three hundred fifty dollars ($350.00) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) and/or imprisoned for a period not exceeding six (6) months, or both.
If you or a family member has been charged with providing alcohol to minors, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.