Related Frank Caprio, Rhode Island’s beloved retired rogue municipal judge died at 88. He had recently been ill, having waged a long and courageous battle against pancreatic cancer. Host of the reality courtroom series “Caught in Providence,” he found international fame for his kindness. It wasn’t just his record though—it was his unique approach to justice that really set him apart.
Caprio has deep roots on the bench, serving for almost four decades before retiring from the Providence municipal court in 2023. Hailing from humble beginnings, he grew up as the second of three boys in the Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence. His life experiences deeply influenced his judicial philosophy, leading him to believe that “justice can be served in a compassionate way.”
His courtroom, the setting of his hit show “Caught in Providence,” was a stage where he showcased his folksy humor and empathy. Clips from the show have garnered more than 1 billion views on social media, highlighting his ability to connect with individuals facing legal challenges.
Caprio became famous for genuinely empathizing with everyone who stood before him. On one famous occasion, he overruled a woman’s parking tickets and $400 in fines after listening to her compelling backstory. His belief that “people can dispense justice without being oppressive” resonated with many.
Beyond his courtroom presence, Caprio often spoke about the need to serve as a counterweight to society’s lack of trust. He often noted that “almost 90% of low-income Americans are forced to battle civil issues like healthcare, unjust evictions, veterans benefits, and, yes, even traffic violations, alone.” This piece of advice demonstrated his dedication to looking out for people who too often are left alone to sort out complicated legal issues.
His family described him as “a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.” They focused on his warmth and the deep relationships he made with everyone he met during his long life.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee lauded Caprio’s positive effects on the community. He stated, “He was more than a jurist – he was a symbol of empathy on the bench, showing us what is possible when justice is tempered with humanity.” Farmers Market Nutrition Program As Gov. The governor recognized that Caprio’s “gifts of gab and gregariousness” helped him bring joy to those he helped.
Caprio’s legacy extends beyond the courtroom. His overarching hope was that faith should influence the foundation of kindness, fairness, and compassion in society’s institutions. He once remarked, “I hope that people will take away that the institutions of government can function very well by exercising kindness, fairness, and compassion in their deliberations. We live in a very contentious society.”
Word of his death travels fast. Fortunately for everyone, Frank Caprio will be remembered not only as a judge but as a last sunny flicker of compassion and humanity amid a cruel dark age.