Providence Judge Frank Caprio Dies at 88 After Cancer Battle

Frank Caprio, the longtime Providence Municipal Court Chief Judge known for his compassion and humor, passed away at 88 after battling pancreatic cancer. Elected in 1985, he served nearly 40 years on the bench and gained international fame through his Emmy-nominated TV show, "Caught in Providence," celebrated for its empathetic approach to justice and viral social media clips. Caprio's judicial philosophy emphasized fairness and leniency, often helping people facing financial hardships avoid harsh penalties that could worsen their situations. Beyond the courtroom, he was deeply involved in education, founding scholarships and serving as chairman of Rhode Island's Board of Governors for Higher Education. He retired in January 2023, and later that year, the Providence municipal courtroom was named in his honor. Caprio is remembered as a devoted family man and a symbol of kindness, leaving a legacy that inspires others to bring more compassion into the world.