Judge Frank Caprio, who rose to social media fame for his compassion in the courtroom—often mixing leniency with heartfelt life advice—has passed away.
His family announced on August 20 that he died following a long, courageous fight with pancreatic cancer.
In a statement, his family shared, “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. His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”
The statement went on to say, “He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. His legacy lives on in the countless acts of kindness he inspired.”
It concluded with, “In his honor, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world — just as he did every day.”
Judge Caprio became widely known through his show Caught in Providence, where he shared videos from his municipal courtroom in Providence, Rhode Island. On the show, he listened to defendants explain unpaid traffic tickets or other minor offenses, often choosing to reduce fines—or waive them completely—when people were facing tough circumstances.
These heartwarming moments earned him the title of “Nicest Judge in the World” across social media.
Remarkably, just a day before his passing, Judge Caprio posted a video to his three million Instagram followers, asking for their prayers as his health continued to decline.
In a video recorded from his hospital bed, Caprio shared, “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. I’m back in the hospital now and I’m coming to you again asking you to remember me in your prayers once more.”
Judge Frank Caprio was 88.
