R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-5-29.1: Punitive damages.

In addition to the remedies provided in § 28-5-24, where the challenged conduct is shown to be motivated by malice or ill will or when the action involves reckless or callous indifference to the statutorily protected rights of others, the court may award punitive damages; provided, that punitive damages shall not be available against the state or its political subdivisions.