All about the ‘nicest judge in the world’ Judge Frank Caprio and his hit TV show “Caught in Providence”

Judge Frank Caprio, renowned for his compassionate approach to justice and his role as the star of the courtroom reality show Caught in Providence, has passed away at the age of 88 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. His death was confirmed by his family on August 20, 2025, through a heartfelt message on his official Instagram account.

Born on November 24, 1936, in Providence, Rhode Island, Caprio served as a municipal judge in Providence from 1985 until his retirement in 2023. His television program, Caught in Providence, showcased his empathetic rulings in minor traffic and parking cases, earning him the title "America's Nicest Judge." The show gained national attention and was syndicated across the United States, with clips going viral on social media platforms.

Judge Frank Caprio's 'Caught in Providence'

Judge Frank Caprio's television program, Caught in Providence, became a global sensation, showcasing his compassionate approach to justice. The show began airing in 2000 on WLNE-TV in Rhode Island and gained national syndication in 2018, reaching audiences across the United States.

The series featured real-life courtroom proceedings, highlighting Caprio's empathetic rulings in minor traffic and parking cases. His interactions with defendants, often marked by humor and understanding, resonated with viewers worldwide. Clips from the show went viral on social media platforms, amassing millions of views and earning Caprio the moniker "America's Nicest Judge."

He rose to online fame thanks to his humor and warm-hearted approach in the courtroom, attracting 3.3 million followers on his personal Facebook account, 16 million followers on the official Caught in Providence Facebook page, and 1.5 million followers on TikTok.

Beyond its entertainment value, Caught in Providence became a platform for Caprio to demonstrate his belief in the goodness of people and the importance of second chances. The show's success led to its availability on streaming platforms like Prime Video, allowing new audiences to experience Caprio's unique brand of justice.

Even after his retirement in 2023, Caprio's legacy continued through the ongoing popularity of the show, inspiring viewers with his unwavering commitment to fairness and compassion.

Caprio is survived by his wife, Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.