Judge Frank Caprio, TikTok’s beloved ‘compassionate judge,’ dies at 88 after cancer battle

TikTok’s beloved judge, Frank Caprio, has passed away aged 88. His death comes after it was announced on August 19, 2025, that he had suffered a health setback.

Caprio grew popular on TikTok when clips from his courtroom moments from the TV show Caught in Providence went viral. His death was announced via his Instagram page. The press release revealed that Caprio had fought a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer

“Judge Frank Caprio passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer,”

The statement also revealed that Judge Frank Caprio had touched many lives during his lifetime:

"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, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”

It concluded that Caprio would not only be remembered for being a good and compassionate judge, but also for the numerous other roles he played in people’s lives:

“He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His legacy lives on in the countless acts of kindness he inspired. In his honour, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world — just as he did every day.”

More details on Judge Frank Caprio as he passes away at 88

Frank Caprio was the Chief Judge of the Providence Municipal Court and was featured on Caught in Providence for more than twenty years. The show aired on local and international TV stations and covered real cases of minor offences such as traffic infractions and tickets.

The Rhode Island judge and politician also appeared in the Parking Wars series, where he sat on several traffic violation cases. Caprio announced some months after his 83rd birthday in 2023 that he had been diagnosed with December 6, 2023.

He thanked his doctors for their efforts towards his health and urged his fans and well-wishers to keep him in their prayers. He reportedly finished his cancer treatment in May 2024.

He is survived by his wife Joyce E. Caprio, his five children, Frank T. Caprio, David Caprio, John Caprio, Marissa Caprio Pesc,e and Paul Caprio, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

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