The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors will hold a special meeting Thursday to consider initiating the process to remove Sheriff Christina Corpus from office.
This action would mark the first test of Measure A, a charter amendment passed by voters in March granting the Board of Supervisors authority to remove a sitting sheriff for cause with a four-fifths majority vote.
The proposed Notice of Intent to Remove was distributed to each supervisor and Corpus on Monday. The county has indicated plans to make the notice public before the meeting, unless the sheriff objects to its release.
Corpus, elected in 2022 as San Mateo County’s first Latina and female sheriff, campaigned on a platform of reform and transparency. However, her tenure has been marred by a series of controversies and allegations. A 400-page independent report released in November of last year accused her of abuse of power, retaliation against employees, and maintaining an inappropriate relationship with her chief of staff, Victor Aenlle.
The report also alleged that she used racist and homophobic language in the workplace. Corpus has denied these allegations, asserting that they are politically motivated.
The San Mateo County Deputy Sheriff’s Association filed labor complaints against Corpus, alleging violations of state labor laws, including the improper treatment of union president Carlos Tapia.
The union president was arrested on accusations of timecard fraud, but the county District Attorney’s Office declined to file charges, citing a lack of evidence. The union claims the arrest was retaliatory.
In response to the mounting allegations, Corpus filed a $10 million lawsuit against the county, alleging discrimination and harassment. Despite calls for her resignation from multiple city councils and law enforcement associations within the county, she has said she plans to remain in office.
The Board of Supervisors’ meeting will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday in the Board Chambers at 500 County Center, Redwood City. The agenda and details for public participation are available on the county’s website. The meeting will be broadcast online, and written comments can be submitted via email.