Today, District Attorney Joe Khan hosted a special swearing-in ceremony at the Bucks County Justice Center in Doylestown to officially welcome two new detectives and two new prosecutors to the team. 

Surrounded by family, friends, and members of the law enforcement community, DA Khan praised the incoming members – Detective Joe Zaffino, Detective Timothy Hartman, Deputy District Attorney Catherine Pirolli and Assistant District Attorney Alexandra Bethman - for their exceptional dedication to public service.

The oaths of office were administered by the Honorable Matthew D. Weintraub, who swore in the new detectives, and the Honorable Charissa J. Liller, who administered the oath to the new prosecutors. Making the ceremony extra special, Judge Liller offered special praise to Bethman, her former law clerk.

Detective Joe Zaffino joins Squad 2 (Special Victims, Missing Persons, and Homicides) after a distinguished 16-year career with the Lower Southampton Township Police Department. He brings a wealth of specialized experience in tactical operations and training, and he will now lead the critical mission of launching Bucks County’s first-ever Child Abduction Response Team (CART).

Detective Timothy Hartman will become an invaluable member of Squad 5 (Special Investigations), where his responsibilities will include investigations into law enforcement and public officials. Detective Hartman brings 26 years of experience from the Philadelphia Police Department, including over two decades as a detective focusing on violent crime and firearms offenses.

Deputy District Attorney Catherine Pirolli makes a welcome return to Bucks County after serving as a Deputy Attorney General with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office. A veteran prosecutor with prior experience in our office as well as Monroe and Pike Counties, she returns to our team to continue her vital work in public safety.

Assistant District Attorney Alexandra “Lexie” Bethman officially transitions into her new role as a prosecutor after serving as a law clerk to Judge Liller. An accomplished graduate of Widener University Delaware Law School who previously interned with the Bucks County DA's Office, she brings a strong background in legal research and community advocacy.

Please join us in congratulating and welcoming these four outstanding professionals as they take on their new roles to protect and serve the residents of Bucks County!