San Mateo Board Details Sheriff Removal Procedures

San Mateo County supervisors are advancing procedures for the potential removal of Sheriff Christina Corpus after voters approved Measure A, granting them temporary authority to oust her for legal violations, neglect of duty, or misappropriation of funds. The action follows a 400-page independent investigation alleging misconduct, including an improper relationship with her chief of staff and creating a culture of intimidation and retaliation, which Corpus denies. The board has approved revised removal procedures, featuring pre-removal hearings overseen by a qualified, preferably retired, judge, and a legal-style trial expected to last several months. Protections for witnesses include rules prohibiting harassment and improper use of proceedings. The decision on whether hearings will be public or private remains unresolved. Official initiation of the removal process will require a separate four-fifths vote by the board.