Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched a formal investigation into EPIC City, a proposed Muslim-centric development in Josephine, Texas, approximately 40 miles northeast of Dallas.
BREAKING: Today, I took action as part of my ongoing investigation into a real estate development tied to East Plano Islamic Center.
Under my watch, there will be zero tolerance for any person or entity that breaks Texas law. pic.twitter.com/PZeUf4BFlp
— Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) March 25, 2025
The probe is focused on potential violations of state consumer protection laws.
Paxton issued a civil investigative demand to Community Capital Partners, the entity overseeing the project, which the East Plano Islamic Center backs. Promotional materials for EPIC City reportedly state that the mosque is “the only beneficiary of profits” from the development.
“My office has an open and ongoing investigation into EPIC City, which has raised significant legal concerns,” Paxton noted in a news release. He added, “Under my watch, there will be zero tolerance for violations of Texas law.”
The development, spanning over 400 acres, seeks to create a mixed-use community featuring over 1,000 homes, a mosque, a K-12 school, senior housing, and commercial spaces. Imran Chaudhary, president of Community Capital Partners, said his team is cooperating fully with authorities. “We look forward to addressing any concerns and dispelling misinformation about our project.”
The controversy has drawn national attention, with critics, including Gov. Greg Abbott, claiming the development could potentially align with Sharia law, which is not permitted in the state’s legal framework.
Abbott posted on X that the project represents “serious legal issues” and that multiple state agencies are conducting probes.
The proposed EPIC compound in Collin Co. has serious legal issues.
A dozen state agencies are investigating it, the Attorney General will look into it, and legislators are considering laws to restrict it, as well as laws to prevent foreign adversaries from buying land in Texas.
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) March 25, 2025
In February, Abbott discussed Sharia law on X, stating, “To be clear, Sharia law is not allowed in Texas. Nor are Sharia cities. Nor are ‘no go zones’ which this project seems to imply….”
Supporters of the project argue it aims to establish an inclusive, diverse community accessible to all. Yasir Qadhi, a scholar with the East Plano Islamic Center, emphasized, “We’re showcasing the American dream by serving our families and contributing positively to society.”
The investigation has rekindled broader debates over religious freedom and the integration of diverse communities in Texas.