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As the 2024 election approaches, the media attention on general election candidates is intensifying. Yet, how well do we truly know those who will appear on our ballots this November? While fulfilling our civic duty to vote is essential, it is equally critical that we are informed voters—knowledgeable participants in our democracy, rather than blind followers.
Today, we turn our focus to St. Joseph County Judge of Probate Court, Jason Cichowicz. Elected in 2018 by a razor-thin margin, Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz garnered a mere 50.30% of the votes (45,704 votes), narrowly edging out his Republican opponent, who claimed 49.70% (45,153 votes)—a difference of just 551 votes. It’s evident that Cichowicz has not been widely embraced by voters, especially considering the scandals he has encountered during his tenure.
Of particular concern is the fact that the Indiana Supreme Court suspended Judge Jason Cichowicz for 45 days for what they claimed to be: "extremely serious judicial misconduct, just shy of what might warrant removal from office.” Before delving into the specifics of this suspension, we must pose a vital question: Should a judge punished for judicial misconduct be granted another term and additional chances to abuse that authority?
To foster an informed electorate, I will share highlights from the Indiana Supreme Court's filing regarding Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz. Additionally, I will attach the full PDF of the court’s decision for those who wish to examine and reflect upon the series of Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz' poor choices.
**The Subsequent Views Are Formulated Based On The Details Presented In The Filing By The Indiana Supreme Court Dated 02/07/23
The allegations and facts detailed in the Indiana Supreme Court's filing raise significant concerns. Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz stands accused of severe misconduct, particularly in relation to his dealings with a disabled senior, Cartwright. The charges include attempts to secure ownership of Cartwright's estate and assets while in an existing attorney-client relationship. Specifically, Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz is accused of usurping control over Cartwright's personal checkbook and having himself listed as a joint owner with rights of survivorship on Cartwright's checking account. In December 2020, Cartwright’s total assets were valued at over $6,000,000.00, and during this time, Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz allegedly contacted Cartwright’s bank to discuss transferring all of Cartwright's assets (exceeding $6 million) to his own financial account at a different bank. Furthermore, he reportedly arranged to have himself included on Cartwright's IRA account (valued at $357,000.00) as well.
Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz became a trustee of Cartwright's foundation, also known as the C Foundation, in 2015. Shortly thereafter, Cartwright resigned, leaving Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz as the sole trustee of the foundation (it should be noted that Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz drew compensation from his position at the Cartwright Foundation. Paying himself wages of $7,500.00 in 2022, $15,000.00 in 2021, $6,000.00 in 2020, No wages in 2016-'19.) Utilizing funds from the C Foundation, Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz secretly financed the construction of a new courtroom at the Juvenile Justice Center. This transaction was deliberately concealed, ensuring that the source of the money remained undisclosed. The only other individual privy to the origin of the funds for this project was Anderson Agostino and Keller attorney, Michael Misch, to whom Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz issued a $100,000.00 check from the Cartwright Foundation, directed to the law firm where Misch was a partner.
Furthermore, Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz positioned himself as co-owner, with survivorship rights, of Cartwright's $249,000.00 property in Mishawaka. While there are numerous other abuses and troubling actions attributable to both a lawyer and a judge, one must question the integrity of Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz' role in public office. After reading this, ask yourself if you believe Jason Cichowicz should hold a position as an elected official. Do you believe Jason Cichowicz should continue to practice as a lawyer? If you answered no to either of those, Jason Cichowicz should not be your Probate Judge. Lastly, if Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz would take advantage of his affluent client, there is little reason to believe he would advocate for the well-being of the general public.
Continue with the story and read Part 2: OPINION (Part 2): Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz, Michael Misch, Money Laundering Claims, and Judicial Integrity.
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