R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-16-7
The town councils of the several towns may elect any number of police officers for their towns, that they deem expedient, who are not required to give bond, nor be authorized to serve process in civil actions, but in all other matters they have the same power and authority as other officers. These officers shall continue in office during the pleasure of the town council, and no longer; provided, that they shall not remain in office by virtue of the election by the town council for more than ten (10) days after the expiration of the term for which the town council was elected except that the town council of town of East Greenwich shall not elect, but may appoint, any number of police officers that it deems expedient, who are residents of Rhode Island and who shall not remain in office by virtue of the appointment by the town council for more than ten (10) days after the term for which the town council was elected and who are subject to all the other provisions of this section.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-16-7