Frank Caprio, "Caught the Providence" Judge Dies at 88, Here Are The Details

Liputan6.com, Jakarta Frank Caprio, a Providence city judge known internationally for his compassionate and empathetic approach to justice, has passed away.

He passed away at the age of 88 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

The sad news was announced on August 20, 2025, ending the life of a man known as the "Kindest Judge in the World."

Frank Caprio's death drew global attention due to his immense popularity on social media through the program "Caught in Providence."

Millions were inspired by his wisdom in handling minor offenses, often granting reduced fines or even dismissing charges.

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

Frank Caprio was born on November 24, 1936, in Providence, Rhode Island, the second child of Italian immigrants.

From a young age, Caprio demonstrated tenacity, working as a dishwasher and shoeshine boy while pursuing his education.

He even won the state wrestling championship in 1953.

After graduating from Providence College in 1958, Caprio briefly taught American government at Hope High School.

However, a calling for justice led him to pursue night law school at Suffolk University School of Law.

He also served in the Rhode Island Army National Guard.

Frank Caprio's political career began in 1962 when he was elected to the Providence City Council.

Ultimately, in 1985, he was appointed Judge of the Providence Municipal Court, a position he held until his retirement in 2023.

His courtroom was even renamed "The Chief Judge Frank Caprio Courtroom" in his honor.

Frank Caprio is widely known for his television show "Caught in Providence," which features his courtroom proceedings.

Videos from his courtroom have gone viral since 2017, reaching billions of views on social media.

This has made him a beloved public figure, dubbed "The Kindest Judge in the World" for his unique and empathetic approach.

In each case, Caprio focuses not only on the law but also on the defendant's story.

He often asks about their personal lives, understanding that even a small fine can be a significant burden for some.

His iconic phrase, "Your case is dismissed," often escapes his lips, providing relief for many offenders facing hardship.

Beloved Judge Frank Caprio posted this video asking for his followers to remember him in their prayers before he passed away today. RIP 🙏❤️ pic.twitter.com/SFlguEbhux

— Defender of the Republic 🇺🇸 (@realdefender45) August 20, 2025

On December 6, 2023, Frank Caprio announced the shocking news of his diagnosis with pancreatic cancer in an emotional video.

He began a long battle against this deadly disease, undergoing a series of intensive treatments.

For several months, Caprio underwent chemotherapy and radiation.

In May 2024, he announced that he had completed his final round of radiation treatment, a moment he celebrated by ringing the "healing bell" at the Miami Cancer Institute.

He also made a spiritual pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, in 2024.

Despite his bravery, Caprio's health deteriorated.

The day before his death, on August 19, 2025, he posted a video from his hospital bed in Providence, asking for prayers from his followers.

In his final message, he displayed fortitude and faith, despite the difficult phase of his illness.

Frank Caprio was not only a judge, but also a legendary philanthropist.

He established the Antonio 'Tup' Caprio Scholarship Fund at Suffolk University and other scholarships in his father's name at Providence College and Central High School.

Furthermore, Caprio was actively involved in various charitable organizations such as Boys Town of Italy and the Rhode Island Food Bank.

In 2021, he started the Filomena Fund, named after his mother, to help those unable to pay traffic fines.

This demonstrates his commitment to alleviating the burden on those less fortunate.

Frank Caprio's death was confirmed through a statement on his official social media accounts, stating that he "passed away peacefully" after a "long and courageous battle."

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee ordered flags flown at half-staff in his honor.

His son, Frank Caprio, Jr., stated that his father's legacy will live on through the acts of kindness he inspired, cementing his place as an icon of kindness and empathy.