Judge Frank Caprio Passes Away at 88 After Battle with Cancer
Frank Caprio, the renowned Rhode Island municipal judge and television personality, has passed away at the age of 88.
Caprio was widely known for his show Caught in Providence, which aired nationally from 2018 to 2020 and earned multiple Daytime Emmy nominations. His family confirmed in a statement on August 20 that he died peacefully after a long illness with pancreatic cancer.
“Judge Caprio was cherished for his compassion, humility, and deep faith in the goodness of people. His kindness, humor, and generosity touched millions in the courtroom and beyond,” the statement read. It also highlighted his devotion to family as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Often referred to as “The Nicest Judge in the World,” Caprio became beloved for his empathetic courtroom style. Clips from Caught in Providence went viral across social media platforms, helping him build a following of more than three million on Instagram and 1.6 million on TikTok.
In 2023, Caprio shared publicly that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, describing it as a difficult battle. Just a day before his passing, he posted a message from his hospital bed, thanking supporters for their prayers and encouragement.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee paid tribute on social media, calling him a “Rhode Island treasure” and announcing that flags across the state would be flown at half-staff in his honor.
