R.I. Gen. Laws § 40-5-11: Investigation of complaints.

The superior court may, after ordering notice to the town of the pendency of the complaint, appoint a commission of not exceeding three (3) persons, who shall visit the pauper or paupers concerning whom the complaint is made and, upon hearing the allegations and evidence of the parties, report to the court, as soon as may be, whether or not the complaint is well founded.