§ 23-28.2-12 - Witnesses in investigations. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 23-28.2-12

   § 23-28.2-12  Witnesses in investigations.– For the purpose of the investigation, the state fire marshal and/or the deputystate fire marshals may issue warrants for and compel the attendance ofwitnesses before them as if the witnesses had been summoned on the part of thestate to attend court in criminal cases. The testimony of all witnessesexamined in the investigation shall be given under oath and reduced to writingby the fire marshal, or by some other person by direction of the fire marshal,and shall be subscribed by the witnesses. Every person examined in theinvestigation, who shall willfully swear or affirm falsely in regard to anymatter or thing respecting which oath or affirmation is required, shall beguilty of perjury. Upon the presentation of satisfactory proof of due serviceof the summons upon the witness, and of a failure by the witness to obey thesummons, to any justice of a district court or officer authorized to issuewarrants under the laws of the state, the justice or officer shall issue awarrant to bring the witness before the fire marshal to testify what thewitness may know in relation to the subject matter of inquiry. The warrant maybe executed by any officer authorized by law to serve a warrant by arrestingand bringing the witness before the state fire marshal or the deputy state firemarshal.