BELOVED Justice Frank Caprio, who went viral on social media as the “nicest judge in the world,” has died at age 88 following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Caprio died on Wednesday less than 24 hours after he shared a video from his hospital bed on Instagram, asking for prayers.
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“Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond,” the post announcing his death read.
“His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
“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. In his honor, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world — just as he did every day.”
Caprio’s family said the beloved judge died peacefully.
‘GREAT BELIEVER’
In a gut-wrenching video shared to his 3.2 million Instagram followers, Caprio revealed that he had a health setback and was again hospitalized.
“Last year, I asked you to pray for me and it’s very obvious that you did because I came through a very difficult period,” Caprio said as he laid on his hospital bed.
In December 2023, he announced that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and began radiation treatment.
“Unfortunately I’ve had a setback, I’m back in the hospital now and I’m coming to you again asking you to remember me in your prayers once more,” Caprio continued in the emotional video.
“So, I ask you again, if it’s not too much, that you remember me in your prayers.
“I’m a great believer in the power of prayers. I think the almighty above is looking over us. So remember me, please.”
‘AMERICA’S NICEST JUDGE’
Caprio became a fixture in Providence, Rhode Island, after becoming a judge in 1985 – he even had his own daytime show, Caught in Providence, which ran from 2018 to 2020.
He received multiple Daytime Emmy Award nominations and left social media users in tears for the way he handled a speeding ticket involving a 96-year-old Victor Colella.
Colella appeared in an episode of Caprio’s show and was in court, representing himself, after being fined for speeding in a school zone.
Caprio immediately dismissed Colella’s case after the elderly man explained to him that he was not a fast driver, and was only driving to take his 63-year-old son, who is handicapped, to get his blood work because he had cancer.
“You are a good man. You really are what America is all about. Here you are in your 90s and you’re still taking care of your family. That’s just a wonderful thing for you,” Caprio told Colella in admiration.
He said more than once, “I don’t wear a badge under my robe. I wear a heart.”
Caprio served as a judge for the Providence Municipal Court for almost 40 years, retiring in October 2023.
Dan McKee, the governor of Rhode Island, ordered all flags at state agencies and buildings to be flown at half-mast in honor of Caprio.
“Judge Caprio was a Rhode Island treasure,” McKee wrote in a statement.
“On a personal level, he was a friend who faced his illness with bravery, and I will miss him dearly. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones, during this difficult time.
“Judge Caprio not only served the public well, but he connected with them in a meaningful way, and people could not help but respond to his warmth and compassion.
“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.”
