In San Francisco, a federal judge expressed skepticism regarding an attorney’s plea to halt an impending hearing aimed at removing San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus, who faces allegations of corruption. The hearing, set to begin on August 18, is part of an enforcement process under Measure A, an amendment approved by local voters earlier this year.
During a session lasting about 30 minutes, Attorney Wilson Leung argued that the removal proceedings could infringe upon Corpus’s constitutional rights as an elected official, thereby causing her “irreparable harm.” His request to delay or cancel the hearing had already been denied by local judges in San Mateo County.
U.S. District Court Judge Vince Chhabria challenged Leung’s position, questioning the necessity of intervening in local governance. He pointed out that, should Corpus be removed, there may still be an opportunity for reinstatement and compensation for damages, including back pay and potential reputational harm.
The removal process for Corpus was initiated following a vote by the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors to terminate her under Measure A, which grants the board authority to remove the sheriff for cause. This measure received substantial public support, passing with an 84% vote in favor in March. Corpus is currently appealing the Board’s decision.
Leung reiterated concerns regarding the participation of Supervisors Noelia Corzo and Ray Mueller in the removal proceedings, arguing that their prior statements demanding Corpus’s resignation compromise the integrity of the process. However, the two supervisors made those statements in their official capacities on the board.
County attorney Franco Muzzio defended the upcoming hearing, maintaining that it would provide Corpus with the chance to defend herself and clear her name amid the allegations. Chhabria also probed Muzzio on why there was no attempt at a recall election to remove the sheriff, to which Muzzio conceded he had no insights since he had not discussed such matters with the supervisors.
A recall effort had been initiated by former Caltrain/SamTrans chief Jim Hartnett and former state Senator Jerry Hill but was paused to allow the Measure A process to proceed. Judge Chhabria indicated he would make a ruling soon on whether to allow the hearings to continue as scheduled.
This unfolding case has drawn considerable attention locally, raising questions about governance and accountability in San Mateo County.
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