Schaffer and special prosecutor Brian W. Wice have alleged that they haven’t received payment since 2016, despite a $242,000 bill being approved and paid by the Collin County Commissioners Court at the time. Subsequently, a second payment of just under $200,000 was mandated by the trial court approximately a year later. However, it was later vacated by the Texas Fifth Court of Appeals.
Schaffer has worked tirelessly for over 500 unpaid hours since 2016 and accused Paxton’s camp of withholding payment in an attempt to delay the case. He said, “Their thought is, ‘If we cut off your payment, you’ll withdraw. If you withdraw, the case is over.’ It’s just Mr. Paxton’s way of trying to escape justice.”
When questioned about their future involvement in the case, Schaffer said, “We have to see what happens.” Meanwhile, Wice asserted firmly, “I’m not going anywhere.”
Making it About Justice
Hilder, however, criticized the special prosecutors for making the case “about the money” rather than justice. He pointed out that special prosecutors are required to be paid according to a fee schedule issued through a statewide defense fund, equating to roughly $300 per hour for each prosecutor. Hilder emphasized the importance of ensuring Paxton receives a fair trial, regardless of the payment dispute.
Legal Storm Continues
In addition to the securities fraud case, Paxton faces two ethics complaints and an ongoing federal investigation, echoing allegations of abuse of office that he confronted during his impeachment.
