PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Judge Frank Caprio, the beloved face of the Emmy-nominated show Caught in Providence and a symbol of compassion in the American judicial system, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 following a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Known worldwide for his gentle demeanor, heartfelt rulings, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio transformed the courtroom into a space of empathy and humanity. His viral clips—often featuring moments of grace extended to struggling defendants—earned him the nickname “the nicest judge in the world” and millions of followers across social media platforms.
Born on November 24, 1936, in Providence, Rhode Island, Caprio was the son of Italian immigrants and began his career as a teacher before earning his law degree from Suffolk University. He served on the Providence City Council and was appointed to the Municipal Court in 1985, where he remained until his retirement in 2023.
Caprio’s diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in late 2023 was met with an outpouring of support. Despite the grim prognosis, he underwent months of chemotherapy and radiation, even celebrating his final treatment with a bell-ringing ceremony at the Miami Cancer Institute in May 2024. Just hours before his passing, he posted a heartfelt video from his hospital bed asking for prayers, a final testament to his enduring connection with the public.
He is survived by his wife Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His legacy includes not only his judicial work but also scholarships he founded to support students in underserved communities, and a courtroom renamed in his honor.
“In his honor, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world — just as he did every day,” his family said in a statement.
Judge Caprio’s life was a masterclass in kindness, humility, and justice. May his memory continue to inspire acts of grace in courtrooms and communities around the world.
JudgeFrankCaprio #RestInPeace #Kindness #Compassion #Legacy #NeverForgotten
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