Ex-patrolman files for justice of the peace

Retired Montana Highway Patrol officer Terry Stoppa has filed for the nonpartisan position of county justice of the peace.

Stoppa's competition thus far is Ramon "Ray" Bergh, a 38-year Hill County resident who filed for the position earlier this week. Incumbent Justice of the Peace Carol Chagnon has not filed.

"I just don't know yet," Chagnon said of filing for the position. "I have until the 21st to decide."

Justice of the peace candidates will appear on the ballot in the June 4 primary election.

Stoppa, 56, has 32 years of law enforcement experience, including four in the U.S. Air Force as a...