Facing Drive-By Shooting Charges in Rhode Island? Your Defense Starts Here.
A drive-by shooting charge is one of the most serious firearm-related offenses in Rhode Island. These cases are aggressively prosecuted, and a conviction can mean decades in prison, enhanced penalties, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing allegations, you need an uncompromising legal defense from a team that understands the complexities of firearm laws, self-defense claims, and constitutional rights. Experience matters in these cases, and our law firm has unmatched experience defending these charges.
At Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys, we know how to fight back against these high-stakes charges. We've handled complex firearm cases in Rhode Island's courts and understand what it takes to challenge the prosecution's case at every turn.
Understanding Drive-By Shooting Charges in Rhode Island
A drive-by shooting typically involves firing a weapon from within or near a vehicle. These offenses often fall under multiple statutes, including:
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-3.2 – Criminal use of a firearm in a violent crime
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-5 – Carrying a firearm without a license
- Felony Assault and Attempted Murder Charges – If injuries occur, additional charges can be filed
- Conspiracy Charges and Gang Enhancements– If other people were involved, the State can seek enhanced penalties.
Prosecutors will aggressively seek maximum penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences.
The Severe Penalties of a Drive-By Shooting Conviction
If convicted, you could face:
⚠ Decades in prison with the possibility of nonparolable time and potential life sentences in severe cases.
⚠ Firearm sentencing enhancements that add mandatory years behind bars
⚠ Permanent loss of gun ownership rights
⚠ Federal charges if weapons laws were violated
⚠ Criminal record that impacts employment and future opportunities
With stakes this high, you need a battle-tested defense strategy to counter the prosecution's aggressive tactics.
Strategies to Defend Against Drive-By Shooting Charges
At Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys, we build strategic, aggressive defenses to fight these serious allegations. Possible defense strategies include:
🔹 Mistaken Identity – Eyewitness accounts are often unreliable, and mistaken identity is common in these cases. We challenge the evidence tying you to the alleged crime.
🔹 Lack of Intent – If the firearm was discharged accidentally or there is no proof of intent to harm, the charges may not hold.
🔹 Illegal Search & Seizure – If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, we push to suppress illegally obtained evidence. We see this frequently with cell phone geolocation data.
🔹 Insufficient Evidence – Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the act. Weak or circumstantial evidence will be aggressively challenged.
🔹 Self-Defense or Defense of Others – If shots were fired in self-defense or to protect others, we fight to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
We examine every aspect of the case, from forensic evidence to witness testimony, to dismantle the prosecution's arguments. Our criminal defense team includes an investigator, who will leave no stone unturned when it comes to your freedom.
Why Choose Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys?
When facing drive-by shooting charges, you can't afford to take risks with your defense. Clients turn to us because:
✔ We have extensive experience handling Rhode Island firearm cases, and in these cases EXPERIENCE MATTERS
✔ We are aggressive in challenging prosecution tactics and evidence
✔ We know how to fight both state and federal firearm charges
✔ We are committed to protecting your rights and your freedom
We don't back down from a fight—we build the strongest defense possible.
Take Action Now – Your Future Depends on It
The sooner you act, the better your chances of a successful defense. Don't wait until it's too late—prosecutors are already building their case against you. Let us fight for you.
📞 Call 401-854-7794 Today
💻 Or Fill Out Our Online Contact Form for Immediate Assistance
When facing a charge this serious, you need a legal team that knows how to win.
