As a special election nears, more cities in San Mateo County have endorsed a measure that would allow the Board of Supervisors to remove beleaguered Sheriff Christina Corpus, who faces allegations of workplace misconduct and corruption.
Belmont, Redwood City, and South San Francisco recently backed the measure. If approved by voters, it would grant the board temporary but unprecedented authority to remove an elected official. Ballots are currently being mailed ahead of the March 4 election, which according to county officials will cost about $3.8 million.
Previously, San Carlos, Millbrae, and San Mateo passed resolutions of no confidence in Corpus, calling for her resignation.
Despite mounting pressure, Corpus again rejected calls for her removal.
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“When city leaders shift their focus from their municipal responsibilities to engage in political rhetoric against the Sheriff’s Office, they not only undermine the integrity of our democratic process but also neglect the pressing issues within their own communities,” Corpus said in an email to this news organization. “Public safety and governance should never be used as tools for political maneuvering. Instead, we must stand together in our commitment to serve with integrity, transparency, and a shared focus on real solutions.”
Corpus, who contends the accusations against her are politically motivated, added that residents deserve “leadership that unites, not divides.”
“The politically motivated and misleading rhetoric taking place is only a distraction,” Corpus said. “Let’s focus on what truly matters — building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous future for every community in San Mateo County.”
Even if the measure fails, Corpus could still face other removal efforts, including a civil grand jury investigation or a recall election. Her term as sheriff ends in 2028.
Controversy surrounding the county’s first Latina sheriff began late last year when deputies and union members accused her of misconduct, corruption, and workplace harassment.
In response, the county commissioned an independent audit led by retired Judge LaDoris Cordell. The resulting 400-page report, released in November 2024, alleged that Corpus had an inappropriate relationship with her former chief of staff, Victor Aenlle, retaliated against officers and employees, and used racist and homophobic slurs in the workplace. It also raised concerns about the department’s possession of rifles equipped with silencers and her questionable real estate dealings.
City leaders who support the measure say the ongoing controversy has created instability, making immediate action necessary.
“Measure A is an opportunity for us to cease the harm that continues to happen and continues to be perpetrated in the Sheriff’s Office,” Redwood City Mayor Elmer Martinez-Saballos said at Monday’s city council meeting.
South San Francisco Councilmember and former Mayor James Coleman said officials should not “hold residents hostage by waiting.”
Earlier this month, the Bay Area News Group first reported that county officials had been in contact with the FBI regarding allegations of widespread misconduct among the department’s top brass.
If Corpus is removed, the Board of Supervisors would have 30 days to appoint a replacement or call a special election. If the board fails to act, the county elections officer will call the election, according to the San Mateo County charter.
In January, Corpus filed a petition to halt the March election. In December 2024, she filed a $10 million claim against the county for alleged discrimination, harassment, and defamation. Both cases are pending.
