Frank Caprio, who served as a judge for the Providence Municipal Court for almost 40 years, has died. He was 88.
Caprio’s death was confirmed Wednesday by his son.
“Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond. His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him,” a statement posted on his official Facebook page said.
“He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend,” the statement continued. “His legacy lives on in the countless acts of kindness he inspired.”
Caprio grew up on Federal Hill in Providence and is the second of three sons. While he was younger, he shined shoes, delivered newspapers, and worked on a milk truck, following his parents’ example of “working hard to better the lives of those around him,” his website reads.
He graduated from Central High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from Providence College. After graduating, he stayed in the capital city and began teaching American Government at Hope High School.
While teaching, he attended night school at the Suffolk University School of Law in Boston, which led to his joining the legal profession.
He was elected judge in 1985 and became famous for his television series “Caught in Providence,” which was nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award in 2021.
Caprio often went viral on social media for dismissing tickets from residents who appeared on the show and shared their personal stories.
He also served 10 years as chairman of the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education, which is the governing body for the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and Community College of Rhode Island.
At Suffolk University School of Law, Caprio founded the Antonio “Tup” Caprio Scholarship Fund. It’s named after his father and is awarded to Rhode Island students committed to improving access to legal services in underserved neighborhoods.
He has also established scholarships in his father’s name at Providence College and Central High School.
Caprio announced his retirement from the Providence Municipal Court in January 2023 after nearly 40 years on the bench.
Following his retirement, Providence renamed its municipal courtroom after Caprio in October 2023.
Shortly after his 87th birthday, he announced he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2023. He completed his last radiation treatment the following May.
On Tuesday, Caprio posted a video on Facebook saying he was back in the hospital and asking for prayers.
He leaves behind his wife, Joyce, as well as five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
