Judge Frank Caprio asks 8-yr-old why he should dismiss her mom's case — her 'impassioned plea' leaves him impressed
Imagine if other court sessions were met with the same amount of kindness that Judge Frank Caprio displays. According to WPRI, Caprio has won millions of hearts with his admirable empathy and humor in the courtroom which is also showcased on his popular TV show, "Caught In Providence." During an episode that aired in 2016 and was uploaded on the show's official YouTube channel, a mother and her young daughter faced the judge in the courtroom. Caprio greeted the mom named Samantha and immediately diverted his attention towards Samantha's daughter.
"I see you have a very protective young lady there, holding your hand like she wants to try and give you some comfort," Caprio said while referring to Samantha's daughter. The little girl introduced herself as Alexa and Caprio even called her up to the bench, asking her to help him out during the trial. Caprio initiated a quick conversation with Alexa who revealed she was 8 years old and a student of Silver Spring School. She was also heading off to an ophthalmologist's appointment that day. "When you get older and become an adult, what do you want to do in your life?" the judge questioned the little girl again.
Alexa revealed that she wanted to be a vet when she grew up and started sharing more about her pet dog as well. "Here's what we're going to do," Caprio said. "You are going to stay here and you are going to watch this TV with me. They have footage of your mama's car going through a red light on North Main Street in Branch Avenue at 10 in the morning last month." Footage of Samantha disobeying the traffic signal in her red car was played in the courtroom. Caprio asked Alexa if she was in the car when her mom violated the traffic rules which she denied. Then Caprio turned to ask little Alexa an important question.
"What do you think I should do? Should I dismiss the case? If yes, then why should I dismiss it?" Caprio questioned Alexa as Samantha looked on cluelessly. "Mom was frightened by the man there," Alexa informed the court. Caprio wondered if Samantha taught her daughter to tell that to the court but that wasn't the case. Caprio turned to Inspector Quinn who was standing by the bench and asked him for his input on the situation since Alexa had made an "impassioned" point, explaining why her mother broke the traffic rules and drove on. Inspector Quinn lauded how Alexa responded to the question as well.
Caprio joked about spotting some stuffed animals that were visible in the car as Alexa liked to decorate the car with her toys. "It was wonderful having you up here," Caprio addressed Alexa as she went back to stand with her mom. "Based on the compassionate plea of the young lady, we are going to dismiss the case. Get us some breakfast," Caprio smiled as he forgave Samantha for the minor traffic violation. "We are going to get donuts right now," Samantha thanked the judge for his ruling and left with his adorable daughter who saved the day.