Newport Senator Holding Criminal Record Expungement Event

NEWPORT, RI — Newport Senator Dawn Euer is holding an event to assist those who may qualify to have their criminal records expunged. The Expungement Open House, coordinated in partnership with Attorney General Peter Neronha, will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Jan. 22.

"So many Rhode Islanders unnecessarily serve lifelong punishments after completing their sentences for offenses that occurred long ago," Euer said in a statement. "No one benefits from those people being denied jobs, housing and opportunities for the rest of their lives. Expungement is a legal remedy that allows people who’ve served their time and rehabilitated to take their rightful place as contributing members of our society."

The event will be held at the Community College of Rhode Island Newport Campus at 1 John H. Chafee Boulevard. Attendees will have the opportunity to see if they are eligible to have their records expunged, fill out forms and determine where the forms need to be filed. Notary services will also be available, free of charge. There is no cost to attend the event, which is open to the public.

"It’s my hope that everyone in the Aquidneck Island area who wonders whether they might be eligible to have their record expunged will come to this free open house to learn more and start the process," Euer continued. "If you qualify for expungement, it can open doors that lead to a better life for you and your family."

Euer thanked the attorney general for his support in promoting education about expungement to Rhode Islanders. 60 people attended the first such event, sponsored by Neronha's office, on Dec. 3.