R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-28-19
Members of the division shall have and may exercise in any part of the state, with regard to the enforcement of the criminal laws, all powers of deputy sheriffs, town sergeants, chiefs of police, police officers, and town constables. Any person authorized to issue criminal process may direct that process to any member of the division. All fees received by members of the division in connection with the performance of their duties shall be paid to the general treasurer for the use of the state. It shall be the duty of its members to prevent and detect crime; to apprehend and assist in the prosecution of offenders; and to assist in the investigation and prosecution of any criminal matters within the state. The governor may command their services in the suppression of riots, but they shall not exercise their powers within the limits of any city to suppress rioting except by direction of the governor and upon the request of the mayor or chief of police of any city.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-28-19