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James M. Tolar

Candidate for Calhoun County Constable - Precinct 4

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Age: 36


City/community of residence: Seadrift


Occupation: Special Crimes Supervisor at Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office


Law enforcement or public safety experience: I have been a Texas Peace Officer for nearly 15 years most of which with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office and I hold a Master Peace Officer License. I earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, graduating Summa Cum Laude. I have a total of 5,405 hours through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). Throughout my career, I have gained broad experience in law enforcement operations, training, and community service, which has prepared me to serve as the Constable for Precinct 4.​

My Story

What is your understanding of the role and authority of a constable in Calhoun County?
In Calhoun County, the Constable position is a part-time role primarily responsible for serving civil process and providing a bailiff for Justice of the Peace Court, Precinct 4. I understand the legal authority and limitations of the office; however, I view this role as more than just meeting minimum requirements. This is my home and where I’m raising my family. I believe a Constable should be accessible, professional, and a trusted point of contact for the community especially during difficult moments helping guide residents to appropriate resources and solutions.

What relevant experience do you bring to this position?
Within my years of working in this community, I have built strong professional relationships with multiple agencies, including game wardens, state troopers, surrounding counties, and federal partners. This wide network allows for effective collaboration and mutual support when responding to community needs. I also have extensive experience writing grants and working directly with grant boards to secure funding for critical programs. In addition, I serve as an instructor for active shooter training, providing education not only to law enforcement officers but also to the public to include churches.

How would you work with other law enforcement agencies and the courts?
I work closely with multiple law enforcement agencies on matters including civil process, human trafficking, violent crime, and high-risk fugitive apprehension. As a certified active shooter instructor with extensive training and experience, I bring strong coordination and preparedness skills to interagency efforts. These established connections and experience allow me to collaborate effectively with law enforcement and the courts to enhance courtroom security, improve response planning, and help ensure the safest possible environment for court staff, the public, and the community.

What would be your priorities if elected?
My first priority would be being accessible and responsive to the public. Second, I would ensure the Constable’s Office meets all required state and federal mandates, allowing the office to qualify for state and federal funding therefore reducing the financial burden on the community. Finally, I believe every elected official must be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars by operating efficiently, transparently, and with accountability to the residents we serve.

What distinguishes you from the other candidates in this race?
I am deeply rooted in this community and have built strong working relationships with local, state, and federal agencies that support the duties of a Constable. I bring experience in courtroom security, and active shooter training to help protect our courts, schools, and churches. As I raise my four children in Calhoun County, this role is personal to me, and I am committed to serving precinct 4 residents with the utmost professionalism and accountability.

 

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