“Nicest Judge in the World” Frank Caprio Dies at 88
Judge Frank Caprio, the Rhode Island judge whose compassionate rulings turned him into a viral sensation, has died at 88 after what his family described as “a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.” Known as the “nicest judge in the world,” Caprio spent nearly four decades on the bench before becoming a social media icon through his TV show Caught in Providence, where clips of his humor and humanity reached billions of viewers worldwide.
Caprio stood apart from other TV judges with his empathy-driven style. He often dismissed tickets for those struggling financially, invited children to help him make decisions, and listened with deep care to people’s personal stories. “Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people,” his family said, “his warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.” Even in his final social media post, which he posted from the hospital the day before his death after a setback with his health, he asked followers to “remember me in your prayers once more.”
Tributes poured in following his passing, including from Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, who called him “a symbol of empathy on the bench, showing us what is possible when justice is tempered with humanity.” His son, David Caprio, urged fans to honor his father’s memory by choosing to “spread a little kindness.” Caprio leaves behind his wife Joyce, their five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
