Judge Frank Caprio, the long-time Providence Municipal Court judge who won hearts worldwide through his compassion on the hit television series Caught in Providence, has died at the age of 88.

His son confirmed his passing on Wednesday. A statement shared on Caprio’s official Facebook page remembered him as a man “beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people.”

“His warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him,” the statement read, adding that he will be remembered not only as a respected judge but also as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

A Life of Service and Compassion

Born and raised in Federal Hill, Providence, Caprio was the second of three sons.

From a young age, he worked shining shoes, delivering newspapers, and riding milk trucks, following his parents’ example of hard work and service to others.

He graduated from Central High School before earning a bachelor’s degree from Providence College.

While teaching American Government at Hope High School, Caprio studied law at Suffolk University School of Law in Boston during the evenings.

His dedication led him into the legal profession, and in 1985 he was elected judge of the Providence Municipal Court.

Rise to Fame: Caught in Providence

Judge Caprio became internationally recognised through Caught in Providence, the TV show that featured his courtroom cases. Known for his compassion and humour, he often dismissed fines after listening to the personal struggles of residents.

The show was nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award in 2021 and frequently went viral on social media, earning him the title of “America’s kindest judge”.

Contributions Beyond the Courtroom

Beyond the bench, Caprio dedicated his time to education and philanthropy.

He served for ten years as chairman of the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education, overseeing the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and the Community College of Rhode Island.

At Suffolk Law, he founded the Antonio “Tup” Caprio Scholarship Fund, named after his father, to support Rhode Island students committed to expanding access to legal services in underserved communities.

He also established scholarships at Providence College and Central High School.

Retirement and Final Days

Caprio retired from the Providence Municipal Court in January 2023 after nearly 40 years on the bench. Later that year, the city honoured him by renaming the municipal courtroom in his name.

In December 2023, shortly after his 87th birthday, Caprio announced he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He underwent treatment and shared updates with the public, including a recent video asking for prayers from his hospital bed.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

To honour him, Governor Dan McKee ordered all state agencies and buildings to fly flags at half-staff until the day of internment, calling Caprio “a Rhode Island treasure whose kindness touched millions.”