UPDATED: Caprio Is Out, Judge's Exit Forced By Questions and Critics

UPDATED: Caprio Is Out, Judge's Exit Forced By Questions and Critics

With investigations and questions swirling, Judge Frank Caprio announced on Friday that he is stepping down. This comes just days after the city council formally began to ask questions about Caprio's television show.

“The City of Providence welcomed my immigrant father 120 years ago and provided the opportunity to him and countless other immigrants to flourish in America,” said Caprio. “Providence remains the beacon of hope and opportunity to waves of people from around the world seeking the American Dream. The City is fortunate to have the current City Council, led by Council President Miller from my beloved 13th Ward, Majority Leader Taylor, and Mayor Smiley.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

Caprio's brother Joseph, who goes by the name uncle Uncle Joe, posted to Facebook late on Friday:

WHILE WE WILL NO LONGER BE FILMING IN THE PROVIDENCE MUNICIPAL COURT, MY BROTHER, JUDGE FRANK CAPRIO’S, UNIQUE STYLE OF JUSTICE OF TREATING EVERYBODY EQUALLY, WITH KINDNESS AND COMPASSION, WILL CONTINUE TO LIVE ON TO INSPIRE OTHERS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE, AS THE MESSAGE CONTAINED WITHIN THE SEGMENTS IS UNIVERSAL AND TIMELESS.
I’D PERSONALLY LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE THAT HELPED US IN 25 YEARS OF FILMING THE COURT, WHICH BROUGHT US FROM LOCAL PUBLIC ACCESS TO 2 NATIONAL EMMY NOMINATIONS.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO OUR NEXT CHAPTER WHEN WE MOVE OUT OF THE COURTROOM AND CONTINUE TO DELIVER A DAILY DOSE OF POSITIVITY. STAY TUNED. THE BEST IS YET TO COME.
JOSEPH CAPRIO
CITYLIFE PRODUCTIONS

It is unknown how much the syndicated show has made over the years for the Caprio family and related production firms, but reports are between syndication fees and social media ad revenues, the show has generated millions.

“As I reflect on my 38 years as a Judge, I hope I have lived up to the example of all those that served before me, either on the bench, or in City Government, to make Providence a city that welcomes all, and enriches the lives of every person that chooses our great city to be their home.

“On a personal note, I would like to thank my dear friend, former Mayor Joe Paolino, who was a driving force behind being elected my first term as a judge. Additionally, a big thank you to the talented team of court personnel for their dedicated service. And, of course, the part that I enjoyed the most, which is interacting with the wonderful mosaic of residents and visitors to our city. I look forward to the next chapter in my career and to continue enjoying the blessings of good health.”