R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-27: Standard of proof under §§ 11-47-1 — 11-47-34.

No negative allegation of any kind need be averred or proved in any complaint under §§ 11-47-1 — 11-47-34, and the carrying or use of any firearm contrary to the provisions of those sections shall be evidence that the possession, carrying or use of any firearm is unlawful, but the respondent in any case brought under those sections may show any fact that would render the possession, or use, or carrying of the firearm lawful.