‘The world’s nicest judge’: Frank Caprio remembered at 88
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If you’ve ever stumbled across a heartwarming courtroom clip online—perhaps a judge listening intently to a nervous driver, or gently dismissing a fine for someone down on their luck—chances are you’ve witnessed the magic of Judge Frank Caprio.
Known worldwide as the ‘nicest judge in the world,’ Judge Caprio’s passing at age 88 has left millions mourning, but also reflecting on the extraordinary legacy of kindness he leaves behind.
For nearly four decades—right up until his retirement in October 2023—he presided over cases with a unique blend of wisdom, humour, and, above all, compassion.
His approach to justice was simple: ‘I don’t wear a badge under my robe. I wear a heart.’
This philosophy wasn’t just a catchphrase, it was the guiding principle of his career. Judge Caprio believed in the power of second chances, in listening before judging, and in the idea that the law should serve people, not the other way around.
His courtroom became a place where humanity and empathy were as important as the letter of the law.
His daytime show, Caught in Providence, ran from 2018 to 2020 and even received multiple Daytime Emmy Award nominations.
Clips from the show went viral, amassing millions of views and followers, including 3.2 million on Instagram, from all corners of the world.
One of the most memorable moments came when a 96-year-old man, Victor Colella, appeared before Judge Caprio for a speeding ticket.
Mr Colella explained he was driving his 63-year-old son, who had cancer, to a medical appointment. Judge Caprio’s response was pure empathy: he dismissed the case, praised Mr Colella’s devotion, and left viewers in tears.
‘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,’ he told him.
Stories like these resonated deeply, especially with older Australians who know the value of a fair go and a helping hand.
Source: @therealfrankcaprio / Tiktok.
Judge Caprio reminded us all that justice doesn’t have to be cold or impersonal—it can be warm, understanding, and even uplifting.
‘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,’ he said, his voice gentle but resolute.
‘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.’
His faith in the power of community and prayer was unwavering. “I’m a great believer in the power of prayers. I think the almighty above is looking over us. So remember me, please.”
His family shared that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, and paid tribute to him as a man ‘beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people.’
They remembered him not just as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.
Source: Entertainment Tonight / Youtube.
Rhode Island’s governor, Dan McKee, ordered all flags at state agencies and buildings flown at half-mast, calling him ‘a Rhode Island treasure’ and adding:
‘On a personal level, he was a friend who faced his illness with bravery, and I will miss him dearly. 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.’
Read more: Why a US court allowed a dead man to deliver his own victim impact statement – via an AI avatar
Did you ever watch Judge Caprio’s show or see his viral videos? Did his approach to justice resonate with you? We’d love to hear your memories, thoughts, or even your own stories of kindness in the comments below.
Rest in peace, Judge Caprio. The world is a kinder place because of you.
Known worldwide as the ‘nicest judge in the world,’ Judge Caprio’s passing at age 88 has left millions mourning, but also reflecting on the extraordinary legacy of kindness he leaves behind.
A Life Devoted to Compassion
Frank Caprio wasn’t your average judge. Born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, he became a fixture in his community after being appointed to the Providence Municipal Court in 1985.For nearly four decades—right up until his retirement in October 2023—he presided over cases with a unique blend of wisdom, humour, and, above all, compassion.
His approach to justice was simple: ‘I don’t wear a badge under my robe. I wear a heart.’
This philosophy wasn’t just a catchphrase, it was the guiding principle of his career. Judge Caprio believed in the power of second chances, in listening before judging, and in the idea that the law should serve people, not the other way around.
Frank Caprio, known as the 'nicest judge in the world,' has died at the age of 88 after battling pancreatic cancer. Image source: Entertainment Tonight / Youtube.
His courtroom became a place where humanity and empathy were as important as the letter of the law.
From Local Legend to Global Inspiration
While Judge Caprio was beloved in his hometown, it was the advent of social media that turned him into a global sensation.His daytime show, Caught in Providence, ran from 2018 to 2020 and even received multiple Daytime Emmy Award nominations.
Clips from the show went viral, amassing millions of views and followers, including 3.2 million on Instagram, from all corners of the world.
One of the most memorable moments came when a 96-year-old man, Victor Colella, appeared before Judge Caprio for a speeding ticket.
Mr Colella explained he was driving his 63-year-old son, who had cancer, to a medical appointment. Judge Caprio’s response was pure empathy: he dismissed the case, praised Mr Colella’s devotion, and left viewers in tears.
‘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,’ he told him.
Stories like these resonated deeply, especially with older Australians who know the value of a fair go and a helping hand.
Source: @therealfrankcaprio / Tiktok.
Judge Caprio reminded us all that justice doesn’t have to be cold or impersonal—it can be warm, understanding, and even uplifting.
A Final Message of Hope
In December 2023, Judge Caprio revealed he was battling pancreatic cancer and began radiation treatment. Less than 24 hours before his passing, he shared a final video from his hospital bed, asking fans once again for their prayers.‘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,’ he said, his voice gentle but resolute.
‘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.’
His faith in the power of community and prayer was unwavering. “I’m a great believer in the power of prayers. I think the almighty above is looking over us. So remember me, please.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Judge Caprio’s passing was met with an outpouring of love and respect.His family shared that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, and paid tribute to him as a man ‘beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people.’
They remembered him not just as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.
Source: Entertainment Tonight / Youtube.
Rhode Island’s governor, Dan McKee, ordered all flags at state agencies and buildings flown at half-mast, calling him ‘a Rhode Island treasure’ and adding:
‘On a personal level, he was a friend who faced his illness with bravery, and I will miss him dearly. 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.’
Read more: Why a US court allowed a dead man to deliver his own victim impact statement – via an AI avatar
Did you ever watch Judge Caprio’s show or see his viral videos? Did his approach to justice resonate with you? We’d love to hear your memories, thoughts, or even your own stories of kindness in the comments below.
Rest in peace, Judge Caprio. The world is a kinder place because of you.
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looks like he was well liked in America.
