About Block Island
Block Island, Rhode Island is a community in Washington County, Rhode Island. This page consolidates verified public records resources for Block Island, including law enforcement, court, vital, property, and government records.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement in Block Island
New Shoreham Police Department
Municipal law enforcement for the Town of New Shoreham (Block Island): patrol, investigations, traffic, and emergency response. 10 Beach Avenue, Block Island, RI 02807. Phone: 401-466-3220.
⚖️ Courts & Case Records in Block Island
Smart Search - Rhode Island Judiciary Public Portal
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🔗 https://publicportal.courts.ri.gov/PublicPortal/Home/Dashboard/29
🏠 Property & Public Records in Block Island
Land Records | New Shoreham, RI - Official Website
The Town Clerk's Office records all deeds, mortgages, liens, releases, etc. pertaining to property located in the Town of New Shoreham on Block Island.
Public Records & Services in Block Island
About Block Island Rhode — In Depth
Jail & Inmate Records
Washington County lacks its own detention facility, so individuals arrested in the area are transported to the Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI) in Cranston, Rhode Island. The booking procedure includes fingerprinting, photographing, and documenting personal details of anyone brought into custody. Those seeking to locate inmates can use the Rhode Island Department of Corrections website for searches. The ACI establishes visitation protocols that all visitors must follow.
Arrest Records
Local police departments throughout Washington County maintain arrest records, as does the Rhode Island State Police. Anyone seeking these records can submit requests directly to the relevant police department or invoke the Rhode Island Access to Public Records Act (APRA). A typical arrest record from the county contains the arrestee's name, criminal charges, the agency that made the arrest, and the arrest date. The APRA framework guarantees that residents and others can access arrest information and other government records as part of the state's transparency requirements.
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Washington County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and sex offender registry information. These records are maintained by the local police departments, the Rhode Island Judiciary, and the Rhode Island State Police. Residents can conduct background checks through the Rhode Island Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI), which provides statewide criminal history reports. The BCI offers fingerprint-based checks for more background information.
Vital Records
Vital records for Block Island, Rhode Island, are maintained by the Washington County Clerk's Office. This includes birth, marriage, and death certificates. People can request copies of these records by submitting an application and fee to the clerk's office. The office also provides information on obtaining copies of vital records from the Rhode Island Department of Health. For more information, visit the Washington County Clerk's Office website (https://www.washcountyclerk.ri.gov/).
Business & Licensing Records
Business records for Block Island, Rhode Island are accessible through the Rhode Island Secretary of State's website at https://business.sos.ri.gov/. The database includes details on registered businesses such as their legal name, physical address, and registered agent information. Those seeking information about business licenses and permits can check the Block Island town website at https://www.new-shoreham.com/.
Economy & Demographics
The economy of Block Island, Rhode Island, is heavily dependent on tourism. The island's natural beauty, including its beaches, cliffs, and wildlife, attract visitors from around the world. The island is home to a variety of businesses that cater to tourists, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. Economic data for Block Island, including employment statistics and tax revenue, can be found on the Block Island town website (https://www.new-shoreham.com/) and the Washington County government website (https://www.washcountygov.org/).
Elections & Voter Records
Block Island, Rhode Island falls within Washington County for election administration, with the Washington County Board of Canvassers overseeing local election matters. The Board operates from 93 Main Street, Kingstown, RI 02881, and can be reached at (401) 782-0100 or through washingtonri.gov. Rhode Island residents can register to vote online at vote.gov, though registration must be completed 30 days before any election. A valid Rhode Island driver's license or state-issued ID is required for registration.
As an unincorporated community, the island does not hold municipal elections for mayor or city council positions. Residents can locate their assigned polling place by entering their address at vote.gov. Election records including voter rolls, campaign finance reports, and voting results are public information available through the Board of Canvassers For absentee and mail-in voting, registered voters may request a mail ballot beginning 20 days before an election. Completed mail ballots must arrive by 8pm on Election Day. Voters can monitor their mail ballot status at vote.gov.
Public Records Resources for Block Island, Rhode Island
Official government websites for Block Island, Rhode Island and the surrounding area. We prioritize official government sources (.gov, .us, or .mil) and supplement with verified municipal, county, or statewide portals (.org or .com) where the agency uses a non-government domain.
- Rhode Island Business & Corporation SearchFind active and inactive corporations by name from the RI Dept. of Business Regulation.
- Rhode Island Death RecordsOnline resource for finding free death records from the RI Dept. of Health.
- Rhode Island Federal CasesSearch the Rhode Island Court system to find information and public records on federal case filings.
- Rhode Island Marriage SearchRequest a copy of a marriage certificates from the Rhode Island Department of Health.
- Rhode Island Property RecordsObtain property tax info by contacting the State of RI.
- Rhode Island Unclaimed PropertySearch property and claim status by individual name or business thru the state treasurer.
Nearby Cities in Washington County, Rhode Island
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I obtain vital records in Block Island, Rhode Island?
Vital records for Block Island, Washington County, Rhode Island including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the Rhode Island Department of Health. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. The Washington County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of eligibility are required.
How do I find public school records in Block Island, Rhode Island?
Public schools in Block Island, Washington County, Rhode Island are administered by the local school district. School performance data, enrollment information, and district boundaries are available through the Rhode Island Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.
How do I access crime data and statistics for Block Island, Rhode Island?
Crime data for Block Island, Washington County, Rhode Island is maintained by local law enforcement agencies and reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program. Residents can access crime statistics through the FBI Crime Data Explorer or by contacting the Block Island police department or the Washington County Sheriff's Office.
How do I access public library records in Block Island, Rhode Island?
The Block Island Public Library provides access to public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. The Washington County library system may offer additional resources. Contact the library for available databases and research assistance.
Where can I get fingerprinting services in Block Island, Rhode Island?
Fingerprinting services for Block Island, Rhode Island residents are available through local police (where present) and authorized providers in Washington County. Services cover background checks, professional licensing, and employment screening. Contact the Block Island Police Department or Washington County Sheriff's Office for scheduling and fees.
How do I register to vote in Block Island, Rhode Island?
To register to vote in Block Island, Rhode Island, residents can register online through the Rhode Island Board of Elections' website, by mail, or in person at the Washington County elections office. Rhode Island requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Rhode Island Board of Elections' voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Block Island, contact the Washington County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
How do I look up property records in Block Island, Rhode Island?
Public records for Block Island, Rhode Island, can be accessed through the Washington County Clerk's Office. This office maintains a wide range of records, including land deeds, marriage licenses, and birth and death certificates. People can search for and request copies of these records online or by visiting the office in person. Additional public records, such as property tax assessments and zoning information, can be found on the Block Island website (https://www.new-shoreham.com/).
How do I get a birth or death certificate in Block Island, Rhode Island?
Vital records for Block Island, Rhode Island, are maintained by the Washington County Clerk's Office. This includes birth, marriage, and death certificates. People can request copies of these records by submitting an application and fee to the clerk's office. The office also provides information on obtaining copies of vital records from the Rhode Island Department of Health. For more information, visit the Washington County Clerk's Office website (https://www.washcountyclerk.ri.gov/).
How do I find business license records in Block Island, Rhode Island?
Business records for Block Island, Rhode Island, can be accessed through the Rhode Island Secretary of State's website (https://business.sos.ri.gov/). This includes information on registered businesses, such as their name, address, and registered agent. People can also find information on business licenses and permits through the Block Island town website (https://www.new-shoreham.com/). The town's website also provides resources for local businesses, including a business directory and information on economic development initiatives.