Judge Frank Caprio , who starred for two seasons on the syndicated courtroom show Caught in Providence and became a social media star in clips displaying his compassion, kindness and empathy, died Wednesday of pancreatic cancer, his family said. He was 88.

The jurist’s death was announced on social media . “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,” the family’s post reads in part. “His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”

Born on November 24, 1936, in Providence, RI, Caprio already had presided over thousands of cases as chief judge of his hometown’s municipal court when TV came calling. Caught in Providence be

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