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RIP, Judge Frank Caprio: India’s Unexpected Bond with the ‘Kindest Judge in America’
Aug
Judge Francesco “Frank” Caprio, beloved globally for his compassion and fairness on the Emmy-nominated show Caught in Providence, has died at 88. He had been battling pancreatic cancer.
Fans across the world are mourning his passing. From a small courtroom in Rhode Island, Caprio touched countless lives—including many in India. Here are five heartfelt ways the judge connected with India:
1. Francesco Mohapatra — A Mumbai Baby Named After Caprio
In May 2022, Judge Caprio posted a video where he revealed his full name, Francesco, jokingly encouraging parents to keep the name alive.
One family in Mumbai did just that.
Manish Mohapatra contacted the judge to say he’d named his newborn son Francesco. The judge called it an “honour and a humbling gesture.” During a video call, Mohapatra joined the judge from Mumbai and praised him as “the personification of the rule of law.” He then introduced baby Francesco on camera, leaving viewers across continents deeply moved.
2. An Indian Father Becomes Judge for a Day
Five years ago, Dr. Haidry Siamwala, visiting his daughter Jamila, appeared with her in Caprio’s courtroom. Jamila, a professor at Brown University, had received a parking ticket.
Dr. Siamwala told Caprio he’d watched his videos online and called him “the kindest judge on the planet.” Caprio playfully accused him of flattery and then did something unforgettable—he invited Dr. Siamwala to the bench to rule on his daughter’s case.
Jamila had parked at 9:54 AM in a spot that banned parking until 10:00 AM. Her father forgave the ticket, citing her reason—dropping her child at school. “Fathers and daughters,” Caprio chuckled.
3. The Software Engineer Who Got a Free Pass
In August 2023, an Indian software engineer appeared before Caprio for parking in a tow zone. After reviewing the case, Caprio noticed the warning sign was barely visible at the end of the street.
He dismissed the fine and joked, “Maybe you can help us fix our court’s software issues.” The courtroom burst into laughter.
4. Indian Donations to the Filomena Fund
Caprio often received donations from viewers asking him to use the money to help those struggling to pay fines. Many such contributions came from India.
These generous gestures helped establish what became the Filomena Fund, named after Caprio’s mother. Originally launched with a $25 donation from a viewer in Indiana, the fund eventually grew under Caprio’s care. When he retired in 2023, he entrusted it to the Rhode Island Foundation.
5. His Final Independence Day Message to India
On August 15, just days before his passing, Caprio’s social media accounts shared a message for India. The post featured an image—possibly AI-generated—showing the judge holding an Indian tricolour and a wedge of tricoloured cake.
His caption read:
“To all my friends in India and those of Indian heritage around the world: may this day fill your hearts with pride, gratitude, and hope for an even brighter future. Your nation’s story reminds us all that when people stand together for justice and dignity, they can change the course of history.”
Farewell, Judge Caprio
Frank Caprio’s legacy wasn’t about court rulings—it was about kindness, humour, fairness, and above all, family. He showed the world that justice doesn’t have to be harsh to be effective.
Thank you for everything, Judge. India—and the world—won’t forget you.
Copy Right By Hornnastee
