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Putnam County Court Judge James Reitz died after suffering a heart attack.

A Mahopac resident, Reitz, 57, suffered a heart attack in court on Friday, June 14, and court officers were unable to revive him after performing CPR and using a defibrillator in an attempt to resuscitate him.

Reitz was reportedly taken to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A former lawyer who practiced at a private firm for years, including a decade as a Carmel town justice, Reitz was elected as the Putnam County Court Judge in 2007 and re-elected in 2016. He graduated from Mercy College in 1986 and earned his law degree from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1989.

“It is with profound sadness that the Reitz family confirms the unexpected death of the Honorable James F. Reitz this morning,” the family wrote in a statement. “The Reitz family respectfully requests that all refrain from visiting the home until family has been contacted and service arrangements have been made. Once funeral arrangements are made, subsequent notice will be provided.”

On Facebook, former State Sen. Terrence Murphy penned a heartfelt message remembering Reitz.

"Putnam County lost a giant today. In my life, I have met few people of greater character, loyalty, and dedication than Judge James Reitz. His Drug Court Program, which will be his legacy as a public servant, should be a model for New York State. Judge Reitz was the ultimate public servant, but more importantly, I am proud to say he was a true friend. My heart goes out to all who had the privilege of knowing him, and of course, his incredible wife Barbara."

This continues to be a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.

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