---
title: "What is strangulation under Rhode Island law?"
description: "Strangulation is its own felony under RIGL 11-5-2.3, defined as intentionally impeding another person's breathing or circulation by applying pressure to the throat or neck, or by blocking the nose or..."
url: https://bankandmunns.com/faq-items/what-is-strangulation-under-rhode-island-law/
date: 2026-08-20
modified: 2026-08-20
author: "Bank and Munns"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# What is strangulation under Rhode Island law?

Strangulation is its own felony under RIGL 11-5-2.3, defined as intentionally impeding another person's breathing or circulation by applying pressure to the throat or neck, or by blocking the nose or mouth. It carries up to 10 years in prison even without visible injury. Prosecutors often add strangulation to domestic violence cases because the evidentiary bar is lower than general felony assault, so a red mark or the victim's account of pressure can support the charge.