BELVIDERE, N.J. (Warren County) — Jessica L. Cardone was sworn in as the 26th prosecutor of Warren County during a ceremonial oath of office held Jan. 30 in the historic courtroom of the Warren County Courthouse.
The ceremony followed Cardone’s official swearing-in earlier this month and brought together state, county and local officials, members of the legal community, law enforcement leaders and community partners.
Cardone was nominated for the position by Gov. Phil Murphy and unanimously confirmed by the New Jersey Senate on Dec. 22, 2025. She formally assumed the role Jan. 5, 2026, after serving as acting prosecutor since Sept. 30, 2024.
A graduate of Hofstra University and Hofstra Law, Cardone has built a career in public service with the Warren County and Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Offices, where she prosecuted sensitive and complex cases in the Special Victims Unit. She is the first woman to serve as Warren County prosecutor.
The oath of office was administered by Superior Court Judge H. Matthew Curry of Warren County. The program included welcoming remarks from the Warren County Bar Association, an invocation by Centenary University Chaplain Dr. Timothy Nicinski, the Pledge of Allegiance led by local scouts Benjamin Bellfy and Zoe Kruckmeyer, a moment of silence, and a performance of the National Anthem by Phillipsburg High School teacher and violinist Kyle Benson.
In her remarks, Cardone emphasized service and responsibility in public office.
“Public service is not about being seen – it is about being present,” Cardone said.
She also spoke about trust, compassion and honoring the position with integrity.
Leaders from across the state offered remarks recognizing Cardone’s qualifications and commitment to justice.
“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,” said U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. “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.”
“Prosecutor Cardone is deeply committed to protecting the people of Warren County,” said Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport. “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.”
“As Senator, I was honored to support Prosecutor Cardone’s nomination. She brings to the Office her combination of legal acumen and human judgement. She understands that prosecution is not about punishing your enemies or winning at all costs, but doing justice fairly, ethically, and without fear or favor. I am confident that under her supervision, the law will be enforced with firmness, justice will be pursued with fairness, and the Prosecutor’s Office led with honor,” said state Sen. Douglas J. Steinhardt.
Hunterdon County Prosecutor Renée Robeson, with whom Cardone previously served, praised Cardone’s leadership.
“From the very start when she was called to serve as Warren County Acting Prosecutor in 2024, she embraced the role with confidence and purpose, and her leadership has already produced great success. We are not left to wonder what kind of Prosecutor she will be – we already know – she is one that has integrity, courage, and compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice and the people of Warren County,” Robeson said.
Warren County Commissioner Deputy Director James Kern III also offered remarks following the ceremony.
“Congratulations to Jessica Cardone as she has officially taken the oath of office as Warren County Prosecutor.
Since serving as Acting Prosecutor beginning in September 2024, she has been a strong and steady advocate for public safety in our county. I look forward to continuing to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,” Kern said.
During the ceremony, Cardone acknowledged the responsibility of leading the office and recognized past prosecutors who served Warren County, including former Gov. James Florio and former Prosecutor Thomas Scott Ferguson, as well as former county prosecutors Richard Burke and Howard McGinn, who were in attendance.
A lifelong Warren County resident, Cardone said the ceremony reflected the community’s collective support.
“The ceremony was not about one person, it was a reflection of the community, law enforcement and those that lift me up and inspire me every day. It is both an honor and great responsibility to hold the trust of this position. I will work every day to keep Warren County a safe place to live and visit,” Cardone said.
As prosecutor, Cardone said she is committed to leading the office with integrity, justice and honor, with a steadfast focus on serving the people of Warren County.
