The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe is saddened to learn of the passing of Peter J. "PJ" Herne, a valued Tribal member and dedicated civil servant, on August 11, 2026.
PJ was known widely for his kindness and compassion, particularly his dedication to expanding Akwesasne's access to civil services and ensuring the community was properly represented in a number of legal matters including housing, civil matters, domestic violence, benefits, among others. Community members received advice, representation, and advocacy from PJ, driven by his genuine compassion and love for his community.
The late PJ had an extensive history in the judicial field and in Akwesasne, offering legal services to the community and the surrounding counties. In 1995, PJ graduated with Summa Cum Laude honors from SUNY Potsdam in Sociology. He later graduated from the University at Buffalo School of Law in 1998.
In 2000, he served as a Gaming Commissioner with the Tribal Gaming Commission until 2006, when he served in Franklin County as the Assistant District Attorney. In 2008, he was sworn in as Chief Judge for the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Court, notably the longest presiding Chief Judge to occupy that role. During his time with the Tribe, PJ led the research and development of the Child Support Enforcement Unit Program, ensuring families received the financial support they were entitled to and authored the Tribal Criminal Justice Survey in 2016, identifying areas of concern and addressing representation needs of the community.
PJ was an avid volunteer, donating his time to various community initiatives including the yearly "Friendsgiving" traditional meal giveaway and occupying board seats providing impactful and lasting benefits to the community. From 2010-2016, he served as a board member on the Akwesasne Boys and Girls Club Board of Trustees guiding Akwesasne youth to realize their potential as caring, productive, and responsible community members. In 2013, he spent two years volunteering as board member to the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Franklin County, implementing land-grant programming through Cornell University throughout Franklin County.
In 2020, PJ served as Senior Attorney for the Legal Aid Society of North-Eastern New York (LASNNY) bringing legal services to Akwesasne twice a week, assisting individuals obtaining legal services, advice, and advocacy. Through this grant, he was able to bring free legal services to the community, expand Tribal member access to legal services and advocacy for a number of civil matters. PJ also operated a privately owned law firm, Law Office of PJ Herne, from 2016 until present while serving as the Race Director for the Mohawk International Raceway. He published several law articles for Albany Law Reviews and American Indian Law Journal on gaming and bail reform.
On behalf of the SRMT, we extend our deepest condolences to PJ's family, friends, and community. PJ was a dedicated advocate for the community and cared deeply for the people he was serving, particularly those who faced financial barriers to receiving services. His leadership, kindness, and dedication to the Akwesasne community will always be remembered.