Beloved American judge Frank Caprio, best known globally for his compassionate rulings on the television series Caught in Providence, has died at the age of 88.
His death, following a long and brave fight with pancreatic cancer, was confirmed in a statement shared on his social media accounts.
“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 statement on Facebook and Instagram read. “His warmth, humour and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”
Caprio, who began practising law after being admitted to the bar in 1965, served as a municipal judge in Providence, Rhode Island, from 1985 until his retirement in 2023. His approach to justice gained international attention when Caught in Providence began airing, showcasing his interactions with ordinary citizens facing minor violations such as overdue parking tickets and traffic offences. His style of listening with empathy and occasionally waiving fines or offering leniency struck a chord with viewers worldwide.
Viral videos from his court sessions-where he dismissed tickets for struggling families or offered words of encouragement gathered more than a billion views online.
The programme was nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 2021, further cementing his reputation as “America’s Nicest Judge”. Beyond the screen, Caprio also published a book titled, Compassion in the Court: Life-Changing Stories from America’s Nicest Judge, reflecting upon some of his most memorable cases and courtroom encounters.
Just hours before his death, Caprio recorded a video message from his hospital bed, where he asked supporters to remember him in their prayers.
Caprio is survived by his wife Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
(Picture Courtesy: Instagram: Frank Caprio)
