STONE MOUNTAIN, GA (CBS ATLANTA) –
Search warrants were issued by the DeKalb County district attorney’s office to search the home and office of the county chief executive officer.
CEO Burrell Ellis testified before the grand jury on Monday about an ongoing investigation into Watershed Management. When he finished, he found out search warrants were being executed.
“I haven’t done anything that I’m aware of, nor has my staff done anything I’m aware of that was inappropriate,” Ellis said.
Investigators left his Stone Mountain home with boxes of items seized. They escorted Ellis’ 83-year-old mother, who was visiting, back into the home when they were done.
“I don’t know, they’re looking for a contract in particular, but I don’t think there’s anything in my home or my office that would raise any eyebrows,” Ellis said.
Investigators also searched DeKalb County’s finance, purchasing and elections offices, as well as the office of former Ellis campaign manager Kevin Ross. Because of that, Ellis shared that several people do business with the county, including campaign contributors.
“I think what’s essential here is never have I been in, done anything that would give anyone a promise in return for a campaign contribution,” Ellis said.
The warrants will also allow investigators to look at the emails of Ellis and staff and at his American Express statements. He said he’ll continue to serve the county while the investigation runs its course.
“I want them to know I’m going to continue to be honest. I’m going to be transparent. I’m going to continue to work with the all the officials involved in this process. We’re going to continue to do our job and do it in the right way,” Ellis said.
Ellis said he is not represented by an attorney, but he will seek counsel.
The DeKalb Co. DA had no comment.