Judge Frank Caprio, a beloved figure known as the “nicest judge in the world” who captured global attention with his compassionate courtroom videos, has died at the age of 88.

For nearly four decades, Caprio presided over a court in Providence, Rhode Island. He became a viral social media star in the latter years of his career, which was documented on the TV show Caught In Providence. Millions of people were drawn to his empathetic approach to justice, where he often showed leniency and kindness, transforming what could have been a grim experience into a human one.

Beyond his viral fame, Judge Caprio was a vocal advocate for justice system reform. He used his platform to highlight the struggles faced by low-income Americans who are often forced to navigate civil issues like evictions, healthcare, and traffic violations without legal representation.

His passing has been met with tributes from many, including Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, who praised Caprio’s “warmth and compassion,” noting that he was a “symbol of empathy on the bench.”

  • Judge Frank Caprio served as a judge in Providence, Rhode Island, for nearly four decades.

  • He became a viral social media sensation for his compassionate rulings, which were featured on the TV show Caught In Providence.

  • Caprio used his platform to advocate for low-income Americans facing legal issues.

  • He passed away at the age of 88.