A motion to change venue has been filed in the capital murder case of former Kaufman County Justice of the Peace Eric Williams in the 422nd District Court in Kaufman County on October 30, 2013, according to court records.
A motion to change venue has been filed in the capital murder case of former Kaufman County Justice of the Peace Eric Williams in the 422nd District Court in Kaufman County on October 30, 2013, according to court records.
Williams currently awaits trial in the Kaufman County Jail for the capital murders of Kaufman County Assitant District Attorney Mark Hasse, Kaufman County District Attorney Mike McLelland, and his wife, Cynthia McLelland earlier this year.
Eric Williams' wife, Kim Williams, is also in the Kaufman County Jail on the same charges as her husband – she has since filed for divorce. A motion for a change of venue has not been filed in her cases at this time.
A motion for change of venue may be filed by either the State, the defense, or may be initiated by the judge. When filed by the defense, Article 31.03, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, provides the motion must be accompanied by sworn affidavits of both the defendant and of at least two credible persons who are residents of the county "for either of the following causes ... 1. That there exists in the county where the prosecution is commenced so great a prejudice against him that he cannot obtain a fair and impartial trial ... 2.That there is a dangerous combination against him instigated by influential persons, by reason of which he cannot expect a fair trial."
Eric Williams is being represented by Matthew Seymour from the Regional Public Defender for Capital Cases in Lubbock, Texas. Mr. Seymour was unable to be reached for comment. A hearing has not yet been scheduled on the motion.
