Retired Providence Municipal Court Judge Frank Caprio, celebrated for his compassionate approach to justice on the viral TV show Caught in Providence, has passed away at the age of 88 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
🔥🚨BREAKING: Prominent Judge Frank Caprio just passed away at the age of 88 just hours after asking for prayers during his battle with pancreatic cancer. pic.twitter.com/gwv0wsbvu4
— Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) August 20, 2025
On Tuesday, Caprio posted a social media video talking about his health setback.
“Last year I asked you to pray for me, and it’s very obvious that you did, because I came through a very difficult period. Unfortunately, I’ve had a setback and I’m back at the hospital.”
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Frank Caprio, the retired Providence Municipal Court Judge who gained worldwide fame for his empathetic courtroom demeanor on the television show Caught in Providence, has died at 88. His passing on August 20, 2025, followed a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born to Italian immigrants, Judge Caprio served on the bench from 1985 until his retirement in 2023. He became a global sensation as clips from his courtroom hearings went viral, captivating millions of viewers with his unique blend of compassion, humor, and dignity.
He was known for often waiving fines for defendants facing financial hardship and for his heartfelt interactions, particularly with veterans, whom he would frequently honor in his courtroom. His judicial philosophy, which prioritized understanding over strict punishment, resonated with a public weary of an impersonal justice system.
The passing of Judge Caprio has drawn widespread tributes from around the world, celebrating a life dedicated to humanizing the legal system. His legacy is one of using a position of authority to inspire hope and demonstrate that justice, when tempered with empathy, can be a force for good.
“Enjoy what you have, be kind to people, take care of your families”
-Judge Frank Caprio pic.twitter.com/zriIazyj6E https://t.co/hrjY7glCVO— Wholesome Side of 𝕏 (@itsme_urstruly) August 20, 2025
Judge Frank Caprio, beloved for his kindness on Caught in Providence, has passed away at 88.
Known as the “nicest judge in the world”
Rest in piece King 🙏pic.twitter.com/T0ELWFPUBS
— Dudes Posting Their W’s (@DudespostingWs) August 20, 2025
