Frank Caprio, the longtime Chief Judge of Providence Municipal Court and star of the reality series Caught in Providence, has died aged 88 after battling pancreatic cancer, his family has confirmed.
He passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 20.
“Judge Frank Caprio passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer,” his family said in a statement posted on Facebook.
“In his honour, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world – just as he did every day.”
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee ordered flags at state buildings and agencies to be flown at half-mast until Caprio’s burial.
“Judge Caprio was a Rhode Island treasure,” he said. “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 people in a meaningful way. He showed us all what justice with humanity can look like.”
Caprio became widely recognised through Caught in Providence, the long-running reality television show that highlighted his compassionate way of dealing with minor traffic offences. With humour and empathy, he often brought both laughter and comfort to people appearing in his courtroom.
