Former Lehigh County District Attorney James B. Martin, the county’s longest-serving chief prosecutor and a driving force behind major criminal justice initiatives for more than two decades, died Saturday at his Upper Saucon Township home, according to a statement from the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office and Forensic Center. Authorities said he died of natural causes.

Martin served as Lehigh County district attorney from 1998 until his retirement in January 2024, spending much of his professional life in public service and shaping the county’s modern criminal justice system, according to a statement from the Office of the Lehigh County District Attorney.

During his 26 years in office, Martin transformed the District Attorney’s Office into a regional investigative agency supporting law enforcement throughout Lehigh County. Under his leadership, the office established the Child Advocacy Center, Homicide Task Force, Elder Abuse Task Force, David M. Petzold Digital Forensic Laboratory and Regional Intelligence and Investigation Center.

He also helped create the county’s first Drug Treatment Court, the Veteran’s Mentoring Program and the Central Booking Facility, while expanding services for crime victims and witnesses, including the addition of Ramona, the office’s first companion dog.

As Lehigh County’s criminal justice system grew, Martin hired, supervised and mentored generations of prosecutors whose influence continues throughout the region’s legal community. He also played a leadership role within the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association, helping promote professionalism and consistency in criminal prosecutions.

In announcing Martin’s death, Lehigh County Coroner Daniel A. Buglio called him a dedicated public servant whose leadership left a profound impact on the county’s law enforcement and criminal justice communities. Martin served with honor, dedication, integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice, Buglio said.

The Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office said in a press release Martin’s influence can still be felt across the region and noted that his accomplishments continue to shape the administration of justice in Lehigh County.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Heintzelman-Stephens Funeral Home. Information regarding services is expected to be announced by the family.