Retired Judge Frank Caprio From ‘Caught In Providence’ Dead At 88

“America’s Nicest Judge” Frank Caprio, famous for appearing on the televised show “Caught In Providence,” died at the age of 88, according to a post online.

Caprio served as a judge with the Providence Municipal Court in Providence, Rhode Island, from 1985 to 2023, according to WPRI. His death was announced Wednesday on Instagram through his verified account.

“Judge Frank Caprio passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer,” the caption read.

The post paid tribute to the judge’s kind spirit and good nature. “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.”

Caprio’s account continued, “His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”

The post spoke fondly of the man who was widely admired for his compassionate approach to justice, often blending empathy with the law in his courtroom. Viral episodes featured him showcasing leniency and humanity for those before his bench.

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 18: Judge Frank Caprio speaks onstage during the 2022 Creative Arts & Lifestyle Emmys at Pasadena Convention Center on June 18, 2022 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

Caprio received a nomination for a Daytime Emmy in 2021, WPRI reported. He also spent a decade chairing the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education, which oversees the University of Rhode Island, the Community College of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College.

He established scholarships as part of his community efforts, including the Antonio “Tup” Caprio Scholarship Fund at Suffolk University of Law, a scholarship named in honor of his father. He was a true family man and often referenced his loved ones. His long list of accomplishments includes a 2025 memoir titled “Compassion in the Court.”

“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,” his team wrote in their social media statement.

Judge Frank Caprio, who went viral for making compassionate decisions in his courtroom, has died at 88 💔🕊️ pic.twitter.com/RfndinZGAQ

— TMZ (@TMZ) August 20, 2025

“In his honor, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world — just as he did every day. #judgefrankcaprio #restinpeace #kindness #compassion #legacy #neverforgotten.” (RELATED: REPORT: Police Release Devastating Details Of ‘Lilo And Stitch’ Star David Hekili Kenui Bell’s Death)

The famous judge leaves behind his wife Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Fans, friends and loved ones continue to pay tribute to Caprio on social media by sharing loving messages and memories.