Popular judge Frank Caprio, known worldwide for his compassion in court, has died at the age of 88.
Frank Caprio’s death and cause explained
His family confirmed that he passed away on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, after battling pancreatic cancer. That was Thursday, 21 August at 02:00 SAST.
In a family statement, they said:
“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.”
Caprio had revealed in 2023 that he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He died surrounded by his family and close friends.
Why Frank Caprio was called “the nicest judge in the world”
Frank Caprio became famous through the TV show Caught in Providence, which aired from 2018 to 2020. In the show, people who committed small crimes like parking violations or speeding appeared before him.
Instead of treating everyone harshly, Caprio listened carefully to their life situations. For example, he once forgave a struggling single mother, showed kindness to a sick woman who had to drive herself to the hospital, and gave compassion to a 96-year-old man who was caught speeding while rushing to take his ill son for blood tests.
Clips from these court sessions went viral online, with millions of people watching and praising his humour, warmth, and humanity.
Frank Caprio’s career and achievements
Frank Caprio served as a municipal court judge in Providence, Rhode Island from 1985 to 2023. He was also chairman of the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education, which makes important decisions for universities and colleges in the state.
Beyond his role in the courtroom, Caprio was active in politics. He served on the Providence City Council in the 1960s, ran for Attorney General in 1970, and was chosen as a delegate to several Democratic National Conventions.
Earlier this year, he published a book titled Compassion in the Court: Life-Changing Stories from America’s Nicest Judge, where he shared lessons about kindness and justice.
Frank Caprio’s early life and education
Caprio was born on 25 November 1936 in Providence, Rhode Island, to Italian immigrant parents. His father worked as a fruit seller and milkman, and young Frank helped support the family by working as a dishwasher and shoe shiner.
He attended public schools, excelled in wrestling, and later studied at Providence College. While working as a teacher, he went to law school at night and earned his law degree from Suffolk University in Boston.
Caprio also served in the Rhode Island Army National Guard from 1954 to 1962 before fully pursuing his legal and political career.
Frank Caprio’s life showed that even in a courtroom—where rules are usually strict—compassion and empathy can change lives. He proved that listening and understanding could be as powerful as enforcing the law.
Though he has passed away, his viral videos, his book, and the memories of those who appeared before him will continue to inspire people for years to come.