Memorial Services Begin for ‘America’s Nicest Judge’ Frank Caprio

Memorial services for Frank Caprio, a retired municipal judge widely known for his empathy and humor, commence this Thursday in Rhode Island. Caprio, who gained fame as the host of the television show Caught in Providence, passed away on August 20, 2023, at the age of 88 after battling pancreatic cancer. Tributes are expected from supporters around the globe, reflecting the profound impact he had on many lives.

Caprio’s family has acknowledged the overwhelming support they have received since his passing. His son, David Caprio, expressed gratitude for the “thousands of requests from people around the world” wanting to join in prayer and remembrance. David Caprio invited the public to attend the visitation on Thursday and the funeral Mass on Friday at the Cathedral of Saints Peter & Paul in Providence, which will also be livestreamed on social media platforms.

A Legacy of Compassion and Justice

Known as “America’s nicest judge,” Caprio dedicated his courtroom to kindness and understanding. He often dismissed fines and showed compassion in his rulings, earning him a special place in the hearts of many. His television show, produced by his brother, aired for over two decades locally before being nationally syndicated in 2018. Clips from the series have garnered more than 1 billion views on social media, showcasing his unique approach to justice.

One of Caprio’s most memorable moments involved allowing children to help him decide on cases involving their parents. In another instance, he showed heartfelt compassion towards a grieving mother, dismissing her tickets and fines totaling $400 after listening to her story. This blend of humor and empathy resonated with audiences and made his courtroom a place where justice was served with heart.

Born into an Italian immigrant family in the Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence, Caprio learned the values of compassion and hard work from an early age. He often recounted how his father, a milkman, would continue deliveries to families who struggled to pay. “I saw firsthand how other hardworking people couldn’t afford to pay their bill and I saw how my dad treated them,” Caprio shared in an interview while promoting his biography, Compassion in Court: Life-Changing Stories from America’s Nicest Judge.

Honoring a Beloved Figure

The visitation for Frank Caprio is set to take place at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence on Thursday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.. This will be followed by a funeral Mass at the Cathedral of Saints Peter & Paul on Friday at 10 a.m.. David Caprio remarked that supporters are traveling from as far as the Philippines to pay their respects, underscoring the judge’s widespread influence.

In discussing his approach to the judicial system, Caprio once mentioned, “Whether it’s justified or not, I think there is distrust of the institutions of government.” His goal was to create a positive experience for those who entered his courtroom, a sentiment echoed by many who admired his work. “I’m not trying to change the world, but I’m trying to do my part to dispel those thoughts, those feelings,” he concluded.

As the memorial services begin, communities both near and far reflect on the legacy of a man who not only upheld the law but did so with remarkable heart and soul.