§ 42-16.1-13 - Investigative powers of the fraud prevention unit. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 42-16.1-13

   § 42-16.1-13  Investigative powers of thefraud prevention unit. – The unit is authorized to investigate allegations of workers' compensationfraud and abuse. In furtherance of any investigation, the unit has the power to:

   (1) Administrative subpoena. The unit may request,through an administrative subpoena, the attendance and testimony of witnessesand the production of books, records, and other evidence relevant to aninvestigation. The subpoena shall specify the time, date, and place where thewitness is to respond. Within twenty (20) days after the service of thesubpoena or at anytime before the return date specified in the subpoena,whichever period is shorter, the person served may file in a state superiorcourt and serve upon the unit and the attorney general a civil petition for anorder of the court modifying or setting aside the subpoena. The petition shallspecify each ground upon which the petitioner is seeking relief. If a personneglects or refuses to comply with any request to provide testimony or producebooks, records, and other evidence relevant to an investigation, the attorneygeneral may petition the superior court for an order compelling the person toanswer the request. Books, records, and other evidence obtained through anadministrative subpoena that are not used in a court proceeding shall bedestroyed as soon as practicable.

   (2) Service of process. Unit investigators have theauthority to serve criminal and civil process.