(Web Desk) – Frank Caprio, the Rhode Island judge who became a global symbol of compassion through his courtroom series Caught in Providence, has died aged 88.
His family announced that he “passed away peacefully” after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
For nearly four decades on the bench, Caprio blended humour and empathy with the law, earning him the affectionate title of “the nicest judge in the world”. Clips of his rulings have been viewed more than a billion times across social media platforms.
Who was Frank Caprio?
Caprio served as chief judge of the municipal court of Providence, Rhode Island, from 1985 until his retirement in 2023. His televised proceedings on Caught in Providence showcased his unconventional style – often inviting children to help decide minor cases, forgiving fines when defendants were in hardship, and addressing larger issues such as unequal access to justice. The show was nominated for multiple Daytime Emmys and cemented his reputation as a jurist who tempered justice with humanity.
Born to a working-class family in Providence, Caprio rose from humble beginnings. His career spanned teaching, law, politics, and broadcasting, yet it was his courtroom kindness that resonated most with audiences worldwide.
What made him special?
Caprio’s fame was not built on strict rulings but on understanding people’s stories. In viral moments, he dismissed fines for struggling defendants, paid out of his own fund to help citizens, and reminded viewers that justice could be compassionate. His courtroom was described as “a place where people and cases are met with kindness and compassion”.
His relatability extended beyond the United States. In 2019, he became a household name in Pakistan after excusing parking tickets for a Pakistani student, Ahmad Salman, and later inviting him to his family’s dinner table.
He also shared a message on Pakistan’s Independence Day, in which he praised the country’s spirit of unity, faith, and discipline.
How is he remembered?
Judge Caprio’s passing was confirmed in a heartfelt statement by his family, recalling his “warmth, humour, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people”. Tributes poured in from state leaders, colleagues, and millions of fans across the world who had been inspired by his viral clips.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Caprio, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His son, David, said the love and prayers from people worldwide helped his father outlive his cancer diagnosis by more than a year.
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