‘Judge for justice more than for law’: Frank Caprio, America’s nicest judge, dies

August 21, 2025 by News Desk

Frank Caprio, the Rhode Island judge celebrated worldwide for his compassionate approach to justice, has died at the age of 88 after a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer, his family announced on Wednesday.

Caprio served for more than three decades as a municipal court judge in Providence. His unique style of balancing firmness with empathy gained global recognition through the reality show Caught in Providence (2018–2020), which received multiple Daytime Emmy nominations.

Clips from the programme, often showing light-hearted exchanges and moments of compassion, went viral, earning him the nickname “America’s Nicest Judge.”

Unlike most judges globally who deny compassion by pointing at the rulebook, Caprio became known for going beyond legal texts to consider the human circumstances behind each case. Whether it was forgiving fines for struggling families, listening patiently to students, or easing penalties on the elderly, his courtroom reflected compassion as much as it did the law.

In December 2023, he revealed his cancer diagnosis and continued to share updates on his treatment journey. In his final video message, recorded from hospital just hours before his passing, he asked his supporters to keep him in their prayers.

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee called Caprio a “true Rhode Island treasure” and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast in his honour.

Caprio’s courtroom moments, ranging from forgiving an elderly driver who was taking his son to hospital, to dismissing fines for students and helping struggling parents, became symbols of fairness and kindness in justice.

On social media, one supporter summed up his legacy, saying he was remembered as “a judge for justice more than for law.”

Beyond the bench, he was cherished as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.