R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-36-20

A final judgment or decree rendered in any civil or criminal proceeding under this chapter brought by or on behalf of the state of Rhode Island, any of its departments or agencies, or any of its political subdivisions to the effect that a defendant has violated this chapter shall be prima facie evidence against the defendant in any action or proceeding as to all matters respecting which the judgment or decree would be an estoppel as between the parties to it; provided, however, this section shall not apply to consent judgments or decrees entered before any testimony has been taken.