Former Lehigh County District Attorney James B. Martin has died, according to current Lehigh County DA Gavin P. Holihan.

He was 81.

Holihan said in a release Martin was the longest serving district attorney in the county’s history.

Martin was pronounced dead Aug. 15 at his home in Upper Saucon Township.

The manner of death is natural causes.

Martin spent most of his professional career in public service and served as the district attorney from 1998 to his retirement in January, 2024.

During his tenure, he transformed the office into a regional investigative agency in support of all Lehigh County law enforcement, and developed the Child Advocacy Center, the Homicide Task Force, the Elder Abuse Task Force, the David M. Petzold Digital Forensic Laboratory and the Regional Intelligence and Investigation Center.

He was instrumental in creating the Veteran’s Mentoring Program, the Central Booking Facility and the county’s first Drug Treatment Court.

He brought on the first companion dog, Ramona, to support victims and witnesses.

During his years as district attorney, the criminal justice system in Lehigh County grew substantially and his office kept pace.

Martin hired, supervised and mentored more than a generation of trial attorneys.

His impact on hundreds of attorneys can be felt in the legal landscape throughout the region.

He played a leadership role in the Pennsylvania District Attorney’s Association, helping to bring consistency and professionalism to criminal prosecution across the commonwealth.

“While we mourn his passing, we acknowledge his numerous accomplishments and undertake the continuing burden he recognized of always moving forward in the interest of justice,” said Holihan.

Lehigh County Coroner Daniel Buglio said in a separate release, “I extend my deepest respect and sincere condolences to Mr. Martin’s family, friends, former colleagues, and the entire law enforcement community. Jim served Lehigh County with distinction and leaves behind a remarkable legacy of public service, leadership and dedication that will not be forgotten.”