Rockwall County DA Kenda Culpepper discusses 2026 budget and prosecutorial needs

Rockwall County's Commissioners Court convened on June 23, 2025, to discuss the upcoming fiscal year 2026 budget, with a significant focus on the District Attorney's office and its operational needs. District Attorney Kenda Culpepper presented a detailed overview of her office's responsibilities and the necessity for additional staffing in light of increasing case loads and the anticipated establishment of a new district court.

Culpepper emphasized the importance of specialized divisions within the District Attorney's office, which handle various types of cases, including family violence and financial crimes. She noted that Rockwall County, being the wealthiest in Texas, attracts a high volume of criminal activity, necessitating a robust prosecutorial response. The DA's office has seen a staggering 72% increase in felony case dispositions over the past five years, with significant rises in family violence and child abuse cases.

The discussion highlighted the pressing need for additional personnel, particularly a financial crimes prosecutor, to manage the complexities of white-collar crime cases. Culpepper explained that the current staffing levels are insufficient to handle the volume of cases effectively, with prosecutors managing over 250 cases each. This high caseload impacts the office's ability to prepare adequately for trials, which can take up to two years to reach court.

The court's decision to approve funding for the new district court, expected to be operational by September 1, will require additional staff, including five assigned prosecutors. This staffing is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial process in Rockwall County.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for increased resources within the District Attorney's office to address rising crime rates and ensure justice for victims. As the county prepares for the new court, the implications of these budgetary decisions will be felt throughout the community, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by local law enforcement and judicial systems.