The first formal law system in Rhode Island was established in 1647,[3] which created a code, which was based on the English criminal code, but could also be changed to the likings of the colonists.[3] According to this, each person was disallowed from Murder, Witchcraft, Burglary, Theft, Fornication, and High Treason,[3] the latter requiring being sent to trial in England, and the rest being punishable by imprisonment.
