Warren County Prosecutor James Pfeiffer abruptly resigned on Friday without a public explanation, and the New Jersey Attorney General has taken control of the office.
The resignation, effective immediately, was announced in a news release by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.
The lack of a stated reason for Pfeiffer’s departure has left many in the community speculating about the circumstances behind this abrupt decision.
Platkin said that he was taking control of the office following Pfeiffer’s resignation, and Anthony Picione was appointed as the acting Warren County Prosecutor.
Picione, a seasoned prosecutor with an extensive background in law enforcement, will now lead the office in ensuring the safety and well-being of Warren County residents.
“Tony Picione is a native son of Warren County and a career prosecutor and public servant who has dedicated his career to the public good and rooting out corruption. His service for nearly a quarter-century is commendable. He has earned the public’s trust and mine, and I am grateful he will be serving as Acting Prosecutor in Warren County,” said Platkin.
Picione expressed his honor at being appointed. With over two decades of experience in law enforcement and a focus on white-collar crime and public corruption cases, Picione brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.
During his career, Picione has handled several high-profile cases, including the prosecution of Thomas Rospos and others affiliated with Birdsall Services Group, former Assemblyman Neil Cohen, and Lesly Devereaux, the former chief of staff to the Commerce, Economic Growth and Tourism Commission, who steered state contracts to her mother and sister.
Picione’s deep ties to Warren County, having grown up in Lopatcong Township and graduated from Phillipsburg High School, further solidify his connection to the community he now serves as Acting Prosecutor.
His legal background, including a J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, positions him well to navigate the responsibilities of his new role effectively.
The sudden change in leadership at the Warren County Prosecutor’s Office has sparked interest and raised questions within the local and legal communities. New tips may be submitted to cmdeditor@gmail.com or using the comment app below.