Former longtime Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin has died, according to Allentown Police Chief Charles Roca.
Martin was a prominent figure in the Lehigh Valley legal community, serving as Lehigh County district attorney for more than two decades and building a career that spanned nearly five decades as a trial attorney.
Remembering Jim Martin
Martin was appointed Lehigh County district attorney in January 1998. He went on to win six four-year terms before retiring at the end of 2023.
During his tenure, Martin oversaw a large number of major criminal prosecutions. According to reporting by WFMZ/69 News, Martin previously said that 305 defendants were charged with criminal homicide during his time as district attorney, with 289 ultimately convicted.
His career included more than 30 years as a prosecutor and more than 49 years as a trial attorney, making him one of the area’s longest-serving legal professionals.
Jim Martin’s Contributions to Lehigh County
Martin played a role in establishing several initiatives designed to strengthen law enforcement, prosecution and support for victims throughout Lehigh County.
Among the programs associated with his tenure were the Homicide Task Force, Child Advocacy Center, Elder Abuse Task Force and domestic violence court.
He also helped establish the county’s first investigative grand jury, as well as a digital forensic laboratory and the Regional Intelligence and Investigation Center.
These initiatives became important parts of the county’s broader approach to investigating crime, protecting vulnerable residents and supporting victims.
Remembered as an Advocate for Justice
Allentown Police Chief Charles Roca remembered Martin as a pillar of the community and praised his commitment to justice, victims’ rights and public safety.
For colleagues in law enforcement and the legal profession, Martin’s passing represents the loss of a figure who dedicated decades of his life to public service.
His influence extended beyond individual cases, with many of the programs developed during his tenure continuing to contribute to the work of law enforcement and the justice system.
Jim Martin Cause of Death
Details concerning Jim Martin’s cause of death, age and circumstances surrounding his passing have not been provided in the information currently available.
Funeral and memorial arrangements have also not been announced. Additional information may be released by his family or officials in the coming days.
As news of his death spreads across the Lehigh Valley, condolences are being extended to Martin’s family, friends, former colleagues and everyone who worked alongside him during his long legal career.
Jim Martin leaves behind a legacy of decades of service to Lehigh County, a career devoted to prosecution and public safety, and an enduring impact on the region’s legal and law-enforcement community.
May Jim Martin rest in peace.