R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-30-4
Whenever any law enforcement official of the state or any city or town determines that a prospective witness who is not incarcerated, charged, or under investigation for commission of a felony requires custodial protection and/or assistance with relocation due to a threat to the safety of that witness or his or her family, the official shall immediately notify the attorney general. An assistant attorney general and the law enforcement official shall interview the prospective witness to determine what information he or she possesses and what level of protection is required. If they determine that the evidence proffered is reliable and that the protection is necessary, the assistant attorney general shall prepare a written memorandum setting forth a summation of the information to be provided and the nature and cost of the protection to be afforded. This memorandum shall be presented to the witness protection review board for its review and approval pursuant to § 12-30-3.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-30-4