The Story of Disgraced Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz

2013

Cichowicz becomes Russell Cartwright’s attorney during his divorce.

2014

Cichowicz is appointed Cartwright’s power of attorney.

2015

Cichowicz is named co-trustee and beneficiary of Cartwright’s charitable foundation, gaining control over his assets.

2016

Cichowicz becomes co-owner of Cartwright’s checking account, gaining direct access to his finances.

2018

Cichowicz is elected Probate Judge in St. Joseph County but continues managing Cartwright’s finances, creating a conflict of interest.

2019-2020

Anonymous donations from Cartwright’s foundation are made to court projects, and Cichowicz hires his father’s businesses without proper oversight.

February 2023

Bank of America files a lawsuit to block a $7 million transfer from Cartwright’s trust to an account under Cichowicz’s name, triggering a legal investigation.

October 2023

Cartwright dies at 83, leading to scrutiny over his will, which heavily favored Cichowicz and his family.

November 2023

Cartwright’s caregiver, Celeste Roche, contests the will, accusing Cichowicz of manipulation to make himself the primary beneficiary.

August 2024

The GOP calls for Cichowicz’s resignation after a juvenile escapee from a facility he oversees is charged with murder. Despite suspensions for judicial misconduct, Cichowicz actively promotes his reelection campaign.

September 2024

ABC57 releases part two of its investigative series on Cichowicz’s judicial misconduct. The report sparks online outrage and a growing number of elected officials demand his resignation.