R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-21-10: Disposition of recoveries.

Unless otherwise specially provided:

(1) All fines recovered shall be to the use of the state;

(2) All penalties and pecuniary forfeitures, one-half (½) to the use of the state and one-half (½) to the use of the person who shall sue for it; and

(3) All forfeitures of personal property shall be disposed of as provided by law.