UPDATE: San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus is facing a pivotal removal hearing that began on October 30, 2023, amid serious allegations of misconduct and corruption. County attorneys are accusing her of retaliating against critics and creating a hostile work environment, while her defense argues she is a reformer targeted by a “good ol’ boys” network.
During opening statements, defense attorney Christopher Ulrich claimed, “This case is not about misconduct; it’s about change in culture, power, and money.” He criticized a 400-page report from retired Judge LaDoris Cordell, which accused Corpus of “secrecy, retaliation, conflicts of interest, and abuse of authority,” and recommended her resignation. This report prompted the Board of Supervisors to seek her removal, proposing a measure that allows them to oust a sheriff by a four-fifths vote until the end of Corpus’ term in 2028.
Retired Judge James Emerson is presiding over the hearing, which is set to span two weeks. If removed, Corpus would be the first elected sheriff in California to be ousted by a county board. Jan Little, an attorney for the county, countered that the case focuses on leadership failures, alleging Corpus violated laws and obstructed investigations.
The controversies surrounding Corpus include her decision to end double overtime pay after nine hours, a move her defense claims was implemented by County Executive Mike Callagy and the Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, contributing an estimated $19 million to the county budget. The Deputy Sheriffs’ Association has vehemently denied financial motives, stating the allegations involve accusations of racism, homophobia, and abusive behavior.
As the courtroom proceedings unfolded, Corpus appeared in a green blazer rather than her sheriff’s uniform, indicating the seriousness of the situation. Her defense team, which includes former U.S. Labor Secretary Tom Perez, is striving to refute the allegations while ensuring her side of the story is heard.
Testimonies began with former Undersheriff Chris Hsiung and retired sheriff’s official Jeffrey Kearnan. Hsiung acknowledged a conversation with Callagy about the potential for him to become interim sheriff, while Kearnan confronted Corpus regarding what he perceived as an inappropriate relationship with Victor Aenlle, a position she allegedly created for him in March 2023.
The county’s human resources manager, Heather Enders, testified about Aenlle’s hiring, revealing that he was initially offered a rate of $119 per hour, which Corpus sought to increase despite recommendations to lower it to $72. The position ultimately evolved into a full-time role with a salary potentially reaching $246,000 annually.
The hearing process is informal but follows typical court procedures. Each party has five days to present their case, with the county required to prove its allegations. After the testimony concludes, Emerson will have 45 days to issue a written advisory opinion, which the Board of Supervisors will review within 30 days. Removal would require a four-fifths vote and could be finalized by November or December 2023.
County spokesperson Effie Milionis Verducci expressed the county’s commitment to the hearing, emphasizing it allows both parties to present sworn testimony and evidence. The outcome of this hearing may significantly impact not only Corpus’ career but also the political landscape of San Mateo County.
As this urgent situation unfolds, many are watching closely to see if Sheriff Corpus will remain in her position or become the first sheriff in California history to be removed from office by a county board.
