He believed in mercy, prayer, and the power of doing good. Judge Frank Caprio’s passing is a reminder that justice with compassion leaves a lasting testimony.



Frank Caprio, the chief municipal judge in Providence, Rhode Island, who was best known for being on the "Caught in Providence" television series, passed away from pancreatic cancer at the age of 88. In a video statement on his Facebook page on Wednesday, Caprio's son, David Caprio, announced his father's passing.

"It is with profound sadness that I share the news that my father, Judge Frank Caprio, passed away today peacefully surrounded by family and friends after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer," he said.

"On behalf of my entire family, I want to thank each and every one of you for your prayers, your thoughts, and your unwavering support for him throughout his journey. Your love lifted [him] in ways that words cannot describe," he continued.

David also noted that his father was initially expected to die earlier after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 2 years ago, but that he managed to "outlive his diagnosis" thanks to uplifting public support.

"My father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about two years ago, and he had great medical doctors to treat his physical illness. However, it was the love and the support that he received from all of you that lifted his spirits and boosted his soul to find the strength to fight on and outlive his diagnosis by a year-and-a half," David Caprio said. "So, in his memory, spread a little kindness today. I know he would love that."

Caprio's death comes literally a day after the beloved judge asked his supporters for prayer.

"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. Unfortunately, I've had a setback. And I'm back in the hospital now, and I'm coming to you asking you again to remember me in your prayers once more," he said in a video. "I'm a great believer in the power of prayers. I think the Almighty above is looking over us. So remember me, please."

Aside from serving as the chief municipal judge in Providence, Caprio also served as the former chairman of the Rhode Island Board of Governors — a position he was re-appointed to six times since he was first appointed in 1985.

In a statement by Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee, the judge was remembered as a "state treasure."

"Judge Caprio was a Rhode Island treasure. As we mourn his passing, my thoughts go out to his family, friends, and all who loved him. I've also directed Rhode Island flags at all state agencies and buildings to be flown at half-staff in Judge Caprio's memory. I ask all Rhode Islanders to lower their flags as a sign of respect," stated McKee.

"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. Whether you grew up watching Judge Caprio on television or first saw his kindness touch lives around the world on social media, there is no question that his legacy will leave a lasting mark across generations."

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

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