R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-17-8: Attachment of witness in criminal proceeding.

Whenever any witness, duly served with a subpoena to testify in any criminal proceeding at any court, shall neglect to appear according to the tenor of the subpoena, the court may order a writ of attachment to issue against him or her, returnable at such time as the court shall direct, and may direct the writ of attachment to each and all deputy sheriffs, town sergeants, and constables within the state.