After nearly two decades on the bench, Cayuga County Court Judge Thomas Leone has officially retired, ending a judicial career that began in 2007.
Leone vacated his seat in April after deciding not to seek reelection to a third 10-year term. According to The Auburn Citizen, Leone cited New York’s mandatory judicial retirement age and a desire to spend more time with family as factors in his decision.
Leone was first elected in 2006 after defeating then-District Attorney James Vargason. He later ran unopposed for reelection in 2016.
Before taking the bench, Leone worked in private practice focused on labor law and later served as Auburn corporation counsel. He also made an unsuccessful run for Cayuga County district attorney in 1995 before later pursuing a judgeship.
During his time in Cayuga County Court, Leone presided over criminal, civil, and family court matters. In an interview with The Citizen, he reflected on the emotional weight of many family court cases and the impact court decisions can have on the lives of those who appear before a judge.
Leone also praised the court staff he worked alongside throughout his career and said he plans to focus on retirement and spending time with family, including his grandchildren.
Leone’s departure creates a rare open seat on the Cayuga County bench.
