By Emeka Blast 
Judge Frank Caprio Has Passed Away, Aged 88
Judge Frank Caprio, the compassionate Rhode Island jurist whose empathetic courtroom rulings on Caught in Providence made him a global icon, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the age of 88, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. His death was confirmed by his son, Frank T. Caprio, in a heartfelt statement shared on social media, sparking an outpouring of tributes from fans worldwide.
Caprio, born November 24, 1936, in Providence’s Italian-American Federal Hill neighborhood, served as Chief Judge of the Providence Municipal Court from 1985 until his retirement in January 2023. His television show, Caught in Providence, which aired for over two decades, showcased his unique blend of humor, fairness, and humanity in handling minor traffic and municipal violations. Clips of his rulings, often forgiving fines for those facing hardship, went viral on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, amassing over 10 billion views and earning him the title “The Nicest Judge in the World.”
“Judge Frank Caprio passed away peacefully at 88 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer,” the family statement read. “Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, he touched millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond. His warmth and kindness left an indelible mark.” The statement urged fans to honor his legacy by spreading compassion.
Caprio’s diagnosis was announced in December 2023, shortly after his 87th birthday, when he shared an emotional video requesting prayers. He underwent six months of chemotherapy and five radiation treatments, celebrating his final radiation session in May 2024 by ringing the “bell of healing” at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute. However, a health setback led to his hospitalization on August 19, 2025, and he passed away hours after posting a final video thanking fans for their support.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee ordered state flags to fly at half-staff until Caprio’s burial, calling him a “Rhode Island treasure” who “connected with people in a meaningful way.” Mayor Brett Smiley and House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi praised his 38-year judicial career and community service, noting his establishment of scholarships at Providence College, Suffolk University, and other institutions.
Social media erupted with tributes. On X, @NaijaGist wrote, “Judge Caprio’s passing breaks my heart. His kindness redefined justice. #RIPJudgeCaprio,” while @EagleEyeNG posted, “The world lost a gem. His courtroom was a classroom for compassion. #FrankCaprio.” Fans recalled iconic moments, like dismissing a ticket for a 96-year-old man driving his son to medical appointments or letting a child “judge” her mother’s case, reflecting his empathy.
Caprio, a Providence College graduate and Suffolk University Law School alumnus, also served in the Rhode Island Army National Guard and on the Providence City Council. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His memoir, Compassion in the Court, published in February 2025, cemented his legacy.
