ELLIS COUNTY – The Ellis County and District Attorney’s office has stepped aside from prosecuting Precinct 2 Commissioner Matthew Zajic.
Following an investigation by the Ennis Police Department, the cases were formally submitted to the local DA’s office.
Zajic was arrested in June in connection with a Theft of Property (>$100-<$750), a Class B Misdemeanor.
He is accused of shoplifting approximately $250 worth of merchandise at the Walmart in Ennis and was reportedly caught on store surveillance video.
Store personnel confronted Zajic regarding the unpaid merchandise, but he apparently had not corrected the issue before leaving the store.
District Attorney Lindy Beaty chose to recuse her office from any further involvement.
Beaty determined the step was necessary due to her office’s close working relationship with County Commissioners and to preserve public perception.
She noted the decision ensures the protection of the rights of both the complainant and Zajic, alongside the broader interests of society.
Following Beaty’s motion, 504th District Court Judge Greg Wilhelm signed an order on Aug. 20 appointing Rockwall County Criminal District Attorney Kenda Culpepper as Attorney Pro Tem.
Culpepper’s office now holds sole responsibility for evaluating the matter and making all charging and prosecution decisions independently.
District attorney offices commonly handle cases in neighboring counties when a local DA faces disqualification or recusal, particularly when allegations involve another elected official.
While the Rockwall County team will direct the prosecution, all future legal proceedings will remain in Ellis County to be decided by local citizens.
“A recusal in this matter is necessary and will avoid the possible appearance of impropriety,” Beaty stated.
“It will serve to protect the public’s confidence that the matter is independently investigated and that justice has been or is being faithfully served.”
Public interest has remained strong in this case and last week a write-in candidate announced her bid in November’s election opposing Zajic who, until now had been running unopposed for the Pct. 2 seat.
Ellis County Press contacted Zajic late last week to comment on both matters. While he said he would “group up with my team and I will let you know,” he was not in touch with comment by the given deadline.