Republican Candidates for Jefferson County Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 Discuss Campaigns

Marcelo Molfino and Justin Chesson share their priorities and vision for the role if elected

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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In a Q&A, the Republican candidates for the Jefferson County Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 race, Marcelo Molfino and Justin Chesson, discussed their key campaign issues, the core responsibilities of the JP role, how they would work with other officials while maintaining judicial independence, and their plans to prevent conflicts of interest and improve transparency for residents.

Why it matters

The Justice of the Peace is an important local elected position that handles a range of civil and criminal matters, including traffic violations, small claims disputes, and serving as a magistrate. The candidates' responses provide insight into how they would approach the role and address key issues facing the community.

The details

The Q&A covered several key areas for the JP candidates. Molfino said his initial priorities would be assisting with magistrate and arraignment duties, holding court sessions in northern Precinct 4 communities, and connecting residents with social services. Chesson highlighted addressing a backlog of outstanding Class C warrants and building relationships with law enforcement and the community. Both candidates discussed the core JP responsibilities, working with other officials, and ensuring ethical compliance.

  • The primary election for the Jefferson County Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 race will be held on March 3, 2026.

The players

Marcelo Molfino

A 49-year-old executive director and police detective who has extensive volunteer experience with local organizations.

Justin Chesson

The incumbent 45-year-old Justice of the Peace for Precinct 4 who is graduating with an associate's degree in business in May.

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What they’re saying

“When elected, one of my first priorities will be to assist with magistrate and arraignment duties. I will work with Judge Derouen, who coordinates arraignments, to become part of the arraignment rotation and be available to step in as needed.”

— Marcelo Molfino, Candidate for Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 (beaumontenterprise.com)

“Our main focus is on Class C warrants that are issued. We have over 6,500 that are outstanding from no DL, no insurance and many other offenses. Trying to track these people down to clear these from our system has proven to be very difficult.”

— Justin Chesson, Incumbent Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 (beaumontenterprise.com)

What’s next

The Republican primary election for the Jefferson County Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 race will be held on March 3, 2026.

The takeaway

The candidates for Jefferson County Justice of the Peace Pct. 4 have outlined distinct priorities and approaches to the role, highlighting issues like warrant backlogs, community engagement, and judicial independence. Voters will have a clear choice between the incumbent and a challenger with extensive law enforcement and community service experience.