Criminal Investigation and Response Unit
Enforcing Environmental Laws
The Criminal Investigation and Response Unit enforces Rhode Island’s environmental laws, with a focus on hazardous and solid waste violations, water pollution, and fraudulent boat registrations. Investigators use interviews, surveillance, and other investigative techniques to identify and charge individuals who violate the law. The unit works closely with state and federal partners, including the Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Criminal Investigation, Rhode Island State Police, the Office of the Attorney General, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Providence to pursue joint criminal investigations.
Additional Resources
- DLE Enforcement Actions
- Cooperative Enforcement
- Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
- Marine Mammal Protection Act
- Endangered Species Act
- Lacey Act and Additional Federal Laws
- RI Commercial Fishing Licensing
- Marine Fisheries Minimum Sizes & Possession Limits
- Marine Fisheries Regulations
- Other Fish and Wildlife Regulations