Stacy McNeal, a veteran law enforcement officer and former Texas Ranger, has announced his candidacy for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5, Place 2 in Lamar County. As a third-generation law enforcement officer with nearly three decades of public service experience, McNeal has a proven track record of integrity, fairness, and extensive legal knowledge.
McNeal’s career spans 29 years with the Texas Department of Public Safety, including 17 years serving the citizens of Lamar County, specifically as a local Texas Ranger. He cites this extensive background in law enforcement as the foundational preparation for the responsibilities of the Justice of the Peace office.
“For almost three decades, I have dedicated my professional life to upholding the law, protecting the public, and ensuring fairness in the justice system,” McNeal stated. “My career in law enforcement has given me a deep respect for the rule of law and a clear understanding of how critical local courts are to the everyday lives of our citizens. That experience is exactly why I am seeking to serve our community as the Justice of the Peace for Precinct 5 Place 2.”
The candidate emphasized the critical nature of the Justice of the Peace court, noting it is often the public’s primary interaction with the justice system regarding family, property, and personal rights. McNeal believes his time as a Texas Ranger, which required handling complex investigations and sensitive cases, has prepared him to remain neutral and ethical while making difficult decisions based on facts and the law.
“I have seen firsthand how confusion, fear, or lack of information can make the court process overwhelming at times for everyday citizens,” McNeal said. “A good Justice of the Peace ensures that court proceedings are efficient, understandable, and respectful. My background allows me to balance compassion with accountability, ensuring that the court is both firm and fair.”
Born in Paris, Texas, McNeal is a 1993 graduate of Paris High School and holds over 5,000 hours of formal education and training. After serving elsewhere in the state, he returned to Paris in 2008 with his wife, Hilary, to raise their three sons. Beyond his professional duties, McNeal is an active member of the Texas Association of Sports Officials, officiating high school baseball and football to support student-athlete growth.
“Serving as Justice of the Peace would allow me to continue serving this community in a new but equally important way,” McNeal concluded. “With experience, judgment, and a commitment to fairness, I will continue to uphold the law, protect individual rights, and ensure that our local justice system works for everyone.”
About Stacy McNeal
Stacy McNeal is a candidate for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5, Place 2 in Lamar County, Texas. A native of Paris, Texas, and a former Texas Ranger with 29 years of law enforcement experience, McNeal is dedicated to bringing integrity, impartiality, and community-focused service to the bench. He is a committed community member and long-time sports official in Northeast Texas.
