Judge Frank Caprio, who handed down compassion from the bench on the local television series “Caught in Providence,” earning himself and the show national attention, has died. He was 88.
A post on his official Facebook page Wednesday confirmed that Caprio “passed away peacefully” following a “long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.”
Caprio disclosed his diagnosis in 2023 in a clip posted to Instagram in which he asked for prayers.
“Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond,” the post reads. “His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”
Beyond being a respected judge, Caprio is remembered as “a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.”
The post concludes, “His legacy lives on in the countless acts of kindness he inspired. In his honor, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world — just as he did every day.”
A 'Rhode Island treasure'
Caprio was born into an Italian-American family in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1936, according to a profile from Rhode Island Monthly. He graduated from Suffolk University School of Law, after attending night school. He rose to prominence on the local access channel series “Caught in Providence,” where his compassionate rulings often went viral and drew national coverage from outlets like NBC News. The judge went on to become a household name when the show was syndicated and later became available on Prime Video.
Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee spoke to Caprio’s effort to connect to the public in a “meaningful way” in news release issued following the judge’s death.
“Judge Caprio was a Rhode Island treasure,” the statement begins. “On a personal level, he was a friend who faced his illness with bravery, and I will miss him dearly. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
McKee also ordered Rhode Island flags at state agencies and buildings to be flown at half-staff in honor of Caprio.
“Judge Caprio not only served the public well, but he connected with them in a meaningful way, and people could not help but respond to his warmth and compassion,” the statement continues. “He was more than a jurist — he was a symbol of empathy on the bench, showing us what is possible when justice is tempered with humanity.”
He concludes, “Whether you grew up watching Judge Caprio on television or first saw his kindness touch lives around the world on social media, there is no question that his legacy will leave a lasting mark across generations.”
Rhode Island Senate leaders also reflected on Caprio’s career and contributions to the state.
In a joint statement, President Valarie J. Lawson, Senate Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone III, and Senate Majority Whip David P. Tikoian provided the following statement:
“Judge Caprio embodied the spirit of Rhode Island and its people. He truly saw the humanity in everyone, and his compassion inspired countless acts of kindness across the world. The entire Senate family mourns the passing of Judge Caprio and extends its heartfelt condolences to his loved ones.”
Standout Judge Caprio moments
Making a difference for a new mom
The judge comforted a new mother struggling with postpartum and overwhelmed by a stack of tickets and a boot on her car.
The 96-year-old father rushing his son to the doctor
In a memorable exchange, Caprio teared up while hearing the story of a 96-year-old man who had been cited for speeding as he rushed his handicapped son to a medical appointment.
Surprise to a woman who admits to being 'guilty'
The judge surprised a woman in his court whose two parking tickets he dismissed, even after she admitted to being guilty.
