R.I. Gen. Laws § 3-12-21

In case of an appeal pursuant to § 3-12-20, the district court shall, upon motion either of the complainant or defendant, require any witness sworn, to enter into recognizance in the sum of fifty dollars ($50.00) with condition that he or she will appear before the court appealed to, to testify in the trial of the appeal whenever that appeal shall be called for trial.