Operating without Insurance

Defendant appealed the decision of the trial judge sustaining the violation of R.I.G.L. 1956 § 31-47-9 (proof of financial security).  The Court held that the the trial judge’s decision was without error because the defendant admitted he had not registered or insured his vehicle when he was pulled over.  The Appeals Panel noted that they could not overrule the trial magistrate just because the defendant had stated he had learned his lesson and understood the severity of his actions.  Accordingly, the violation was sustained. 

State of Rhode Island v. Earth Walo, C.A. No. T11-0012 (April 20, 2011).pdf