Burglary penalties in Rhode Island scale by degree. First-degree burglary (unlawful entry into a dwelling at night, or entry while armed with a dangerous weapon) carries up to life imprisonment. Second-degree burglary (other unlawful entries with criminal intent) carries up to 10 years prison. Both are felonies with mandatory restitution, fines, and lifetime collateral consequences including federal firearm prohibition and severe employment impact. Aggravating factors (occupied dwelling at time of entry, use of force during entry, theft of high-value items, prior burglary convictions) push sentencing higher. The first-degree element of nighttime entry or armed entry can elevate what would be a 10-year case to potential life imprisonment.
