R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-5-7: Direction of writs for arrest or execution against the body.

All writs whatsoever commanding the arrest of a defendant, or executions running against the body of a defendant, shall be directed for service to the division of sheriffs or to a certified constable authorized pursuant to § 9-5-10.1, or if the writ is to be served in the town of New Shoreham, it may be directed to the town sergeant of the town, subject to the provisions of § 9-5-8, and no writ of arrest shall be served by any other officer.