New Caney - Porter | October 2025

Government

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

Judge Jason Dunn discusses justice of the peace responsibilities Judge Jason Dunn, who serves as Montgomery County’s Precinct 4 justice of the peace, first began the role in 2019. As a third-generation East Montgomery County resident, Dunn previously worked with the Houston Police Department and served on the Splendora ISD board of trustees. In an interview with Community Impact , Dunn discussed his role and what challenges he sees in the New Caney and Porter area. Can you share your education and career background? I graduated from Sam Houston State Univer- sity in 1996 with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. After retiring from the Houston Police Department, I wanted something more. The role of justice of the peace lets me continue to serve my

community while utilizing my law enforcement background in a judicial role. What are the most pressing issues you see locally? The most pressing issues in the New Caney, Por- ter and Splendora area is keeping up with growth. When I took office in 2019, there were a little over 14,000 new cases filed that year. In 2024, that num- ber increased to over 16,000 and this year we have almost hit that number with two and a half months remaining. Those numbers don’t include case-spe- cific filings necessary for each case. To address the issue, I have increased the overall number of dockets as well as the amount of cases per docket. It is imperative to me that cases are addressed in a timely manner, ensuring due process. What is the most rewarding part of your role? There are many areas that I am passionate about as far as my position goes, but my top two would be ensuring that everyone is treated fairly during their “day in court” and the ability to hopefully make a difference with juvenile offenders and the truancy rate.

Texas justice courts currently have jurisdiction over: • Fine-only misdemeanors for adults as well as juveniles • Civil cases up to $20,000 in controversy • Evictions and tenant/landlord disputes • Truancy • Dangerous dog determinations and animal seizures • Peace bonds • Administrative hearings, such as license to carry denial/ revocation appeals • Property seizure hearings

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY PRECINCT 4 JUSTICE OF THE PEACE OFFICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com .

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