Celebrity Providence Judge Frank Caprio, Known For His Kindness, Has Died

Celebrity Providence Judge Frank Caprio has died, his son said in a video posted to Facebook.

"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," the son, David Caprio, said in the video posted Wednesday night.

David Caprio said his father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer two years ago. He was 88.

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Gov. Dan McKee called Caprio a "Rhode Island treasure."

"Judge Caprio not only served the public well, but he connected with them in a meaningful way, and people could not help but respond to his warmth and compassion," McKee said in a statement. "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."

Judge Caprio shot to fame with the show "Caught in Providence," which televised proceedings he presided over. Videos on the "Caught in Providence" YouTube channel have been hundreds of millions of times.

Considered the "nicest judge in the world," according to his website, Caprio was known "for his fairness, compassion, and dedication to justice."

"Inspiring the world with his wisdom and kindness in the courtroom," the site said of Caprio, who was a "celebrated figure known for his compassionate approach to justice, as showcased in the TV series 'Caught in Providence.'"

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Caprio was raised in Providence's Federal Hill, the website said.

"Long before he became Judge Caprio, young Frank 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," the site said. "This upbringing ingrained in him an extraordinary ability to view the world from the perspective of others. Frank has put that ability to good use, dedicating his life to service."

In his video message, David Caprio also spoke of his father's kindness.

"So, in his memory, please spread a little kindness today," he said. "I know he would love that."

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