San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus' removal hearing began with accusations of misconduct, retaliation, and a hostile workplace. Her defense claims her reform efforts faced resistance from entrenched interests. A county-commissioned report by retired Judge LaDoris Cordell alleged secrecy, conflicts of interest, and called for her resignation. The Board of Supervisors is also involved, seeking to make a measure that would allow them to remove a sheriff until 2028. Retired Judge James Emerson is the hearing officer, and the case could set a precedent as the first elected sheriff removed in California.
"This case is not about misconduct, it is about change in culture, power, and money," defense attorney Christopher Ulrich stated in opening statements, arguing that the allegations against Sheriff Corpus stem from her reform efforts and pushback from a 'good ol' boys club.'
The county-commissioned 400-page report by retired Judge LaDoris Cordell accused Sheriff Corpus of secrecy, retaliation, conflicts of interest, and abuse of authority, recommending her resignation.
Jan Little, the county's attorney, contended that the proceedings were focused on Corpus' leadership, claiming she violated laws, neglected duties, and obstructed investigations.
Corpus' defense indicated the conflict arose from her decision to limit overtime pay, which had added nearly $19 million to the annual budget, a move met with resistance from the Deputy Sheriffs' Association.
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