Cardone sworn in as Warren County prosecutor

Officials swore in Jessica L. Cardone as Warren County’s prosecutor after more than a year of serving in an acting capacity. 

Judge H. Matthew Curry of the Warren County Superior Court swore in Cardone at the Historic Courtroom of the Warren County Courthouse. After leadership roles in the Warren County and Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Offices, Cardone is the first woman to serve as Warren’s prosecutor.

“Public service is not about being seen — it is about being present,” Cardone said in her remarks.

Cardone became acting prosecutor in September of 2024, and the state Senate confirmed her nomination in December during former Gov. Phil Murphy’s lame duck. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-Westfield) and state Sen. Doug Steinhardt (R-Lopatcong) were among the officials to congratulate her.

“I want to extend my sincere congratulations to Prosecutor Jessica Cardone. It was an honor to attend her official swearing-in as Warren County’s 26th Prosecutor and share in this important moment,” Kean said. “Prosecutor Cardone has already demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety and dedication to the community, and I look forward to our continued collaboration in the months and years ahead.”

Cardone took over for Anthony Picione, who became the acting prosecutor in April 2024 after James Pfeiffer was removed following allegations of mismanagement and malfeasance, and the state attorney general’s office took over the office.

“Prosecutor Cardone is deeply committed to protecting the people of Warren County,” acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said. “Her career in public service has been distinguished by her compassion for victims and her relentless pursuit of justice in their names. I look forward to partnering with her and all of the 21 county prosecutors as we work together for the good of all New Jerseyans.”