PROVIDENCE – Judge Frank Caprio, famed for his television series Caught in Providence and long-serving magistrate of the Providence Municipal Court, has died at the age of 88. His son confirmed the news on Wednesday.
Caprio, known for his compassion and approachable courtroom style, spent nearly 40 years on the bench, often gaining viral attention for dismissing tickets for residents who shared personal stories. His work earned him recognition beyond Rhode Island, and his show was nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award in 2021.
Born and raised on Federal Hill in Providence, Caprio was the second of three sons. In his youth, he worked shining shoes, delivering newspapers, and on a milk truck, following his parents’ example of hard work and community service. He graduated from Central High School, earned a bachelor’s degree from Providence College, and taught American Government at Hope High School while attending night school at Suffolk University School of Law in Boston.
Caprio also served 10 years as chairman of the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education and established scholarship funds in his father’s name at Suffolk University, Providence College, and Central High School to support students pursuing legal careers and community service.
He retired from the Providence Municipal Court in January 2023, and the courtroom was renamed in his honor in October 2023. Caprio was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2023 and completed his final radiation treatment in May 2024.
He leaves behind his wife Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
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