Richard “Rick” Victorino, a Republican from Pine Bluff, has been appointed new justice of the peace for District 11 in Jefferson County, according to a news release from Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ office.
Victorino will serve the remainder of Danny Holcomb’s term, which expires at the end of 2026. Holcomb resigned in January after he said he and his family had received threats relating to a budget stalemate on the Quorum Court.
Holcomb was known for his alignment with County Judge Gerald Robinson on contentious matters, including the ongoing budget discussions, until his last meeting when Robinson’s proposed budget called for the removal of positions and reduction in salaries in various departments.
The lack of a county budget resulted in almost 400 county workers not being paid. The involvement of local state legislators led to the passage Feb. 10 of Senate Bill 182, which allowed Jefferson County employees to be paid for the first time since December.
However, Quorum Court members will not receive their per diem pay and Robinson will not get a paycheck until a 2025 budget is passed.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
According to Ballotpedia, Victorino ran for election to the Jefferson County Constable Spring Township in Arkansas. He was on the ballot in the March 5, 2024, Republican primary.
In his candidate connection survey, Victorino listed the Jefferson County sheriff’s deputies as the organization and individuals who endorsed his campaign.
He is also a U.S. Navy veteran, a volunteer investigator for CFSI-Missing Children, a volunteer firefighter and member of Shannon Road Baptist Church, where he serves as a medical director and part of the security team. Victorino also states that he is a dedicated public servant to all community members and treats everyone with respect and kindness.
According to his survey, Victorino believes elected officials should demonstrate high integrity and Christian values in their daily lives, regardless of the situation. They should also serve the public, rather than their own self-interests.
When it comes to his views on financial transparency and government accountability, he said, “If you are going to be in the public’s trust, you need to be transparent regarding all financial dealings.”
Robinson voiced his support for Victorino to serve the remainder of Holcomb’s term.
“I want to thank Rick for his willingness to serve,” Robinson said. “I believe he will be a just and fair man who will make the best decisions for Jefferson County and will do right by his constituents.”
Robinson expressed confidence in Victorino’s ability to contribute to the county’s progress, stating, “It is in order for us to continue to progress and move forward.”