R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-9-8: Notice by owner of theft or embezzlement.

The owner of, or person having a lien or encumbrance upon, a registered vehicle which has been stolen or embezzled may notify the division of motor vehicles of the theft or embezzlement, but in the event of an embezzlement may make a report only after having procured the issuance of a warrant for the arrest of the person charged with the embezzlement.