Criminal Justice Reform
From policing and sentencing, to the treatment of incarcerated people, the ACLU of RI seeks to reform the excessively harsh, unnecessary criminal justice policies and practices that result in mass incarceration, over-criminalization and ongoing inequality.
Explore our work in justice reform in Rhode Island.
The Latest
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: What to Do if You're Stopped by Police, Immigration or the FBI
Regardless of your immigration or citizenship status, you have constitutional rights!
ACLU Files Brief in Support of Gun Owners Criminally Charged for Using Medical Marijuana
"Friend of the court” brief filed supporting a challenge to a federal law that completely bars unlawful users of controlled substances – including medical marijuana, which, though legal in Rhode Island, remains illegal at the federal level –– from possessing firearms.
ACLU of RI Settles False Arrest Suit of Woonsocket Man for $550,000
Concluding a lawsuit involving a disturbing case of serious police misconduct, the ACLU of Rhode Island announced the favorable settlement of a case on behalf of Woonsocket resident Mack Blackie who was twice unlawfully and falsely arrested and detained by Woonsocket police.
Cases, Campaigns & Legislation
Oct 08, 2025
United States v. Worster
This "friend of the court" brief was filed to support a challenge to a federal law that completely bars unlawful users of controlled substances – including medical marijuana, which, though legal in Rhode Island, remains illegal at the federal level – from possessing firearms.
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