White collar crimes in Rhode Island can be charged at both state and federal levels, often simultaneously. State charges go to Rhode Island District or Superior Court depending on severity. Federal charges (wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, securities fraud, tax evasion, healthcare fraud) go to U.S. District Court at the John O. Pastore Federal Building in Providence. Federal sentences under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines are typically significantly longer than equivalent state sentences. Federal investigations often involve grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, and asset seizure before any charges are filed. Pre-charge defense work can sometimes prevent federal indictment entirely.
