Judge Frank Caprio, affectionately known as “America’s Nicest Judge,” passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the age of 88 after a battle with pancreatic illness. The news of his death was confirmed by his official Instagram page, which stated that Caprio passed away “peacefully” and would be remembered not only for his judicial work but also as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Caprio was a beloved figure who gained nationwide recognition for his compassionate approach to justice, particularly through his work on the television show Caught in Providence. The program showcased his empathetic interactions with people facing minor legal infractions, including overdue parking tickets and traffic violations. Judge Caprio’s courtroom demeanor, which often included waiving fines or offering words of kindness, resonated deeply with viewers, and his decisions were frequently immortalized in viral videos that showed his understanding and humanity.
Caprio’s legacy as a fair and gentle judge led to his being dubbed “America’s Nicest Judge.” His influence was further solidified in 2021 when Caught in Providence received a Daytime Emmy nomination for its portrayal of his compassionate work.
Judge Caprio’s legal career spanned from 1965, when he was first called to the bar, to his retirement in 2023. He served as a city judge in Providence, Rhode Island, for nearly four decades, touching countless lives with his unique blend of justice and compassion. His book, Compassion in the Court: Life-Changing Stories from America’s Nicest Judge, recounts many of the impactful moments from his courtroom, further cementing his reputation as a man who viewed the law through a lens of empathy.
A Final, Emotional Message
Just hours before his passing, Judge Caprio shared a poignant video message from his hospital bed. With deep gratitude, he asked his followers to keep him in their thoughts and prayers, a final expression of the kindness that defined his life’s work. In the emotional clip, he said:
“I’m coming to you again asking you to remember me in your prayers once more. So I ask you again if it’s not too much that you can remember me in your prayers.”
Caprio’s passing marks the end of an era, but his enduring impact will continue through the lives he touched, the cases he handled with care, and the profound messages of kindness and fairness he left behind.
A Life Well Lived
Throughout his career, Caprio exemplified the idea that justice is not only about rules but also about compassion and understanding. His decision to embrace empathy over rigid legalism made him a beloved figure across the nation. In an interview reflecting on his health diagnosis, Caprio expressed his gratitude for the life he had lived, saying, “My first reaction was disbelief. But then I thought: I have lived a life full of blessings. I’m not going to let this define my later years.”
Judge Caprio is survived by his wife, Joyce, their five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, the people he served, and the millions who were inspired by his commitment to justice with compassion.
