How did Measure A get on the ballot?
In December 2024, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to place a charter amendment on the March 4, 2025, ballot seeking the authority to remove the sheriff for cause, including breaking the law, stealing county funds, repeatedly failing to perform official duties, falsifying documents, or obstructing justice.
What will Measure A do?
Measure A will provide the immediate solution to remove Christina Corpus from office for abusing her power as sheriff. Her tenure has been defined by abuse of power, creating a toxic work environment, retaliation against political opponents and a failure to address the critical issues facing our community. These allegations could lead to millions in liabilities and lawsuits against our county. The proposed amendment includes a sunset clause, expiring on December 31, 2028, to ensure that the authority granted is temporary and tailored to the current circumstances.
What is the Sheriff accused of?
A volume of complaints prompted the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors to commission retired Judge LaDoris Cordell to conduct an independent investigation into complaints against Sheriff Christina Corpus and her Chief of Staff, Victor Aenlle.
The 400-page independent report revealed:
- A culture of intimidation: Staff who challenge the sheriff’s decisions or report misconduct face severe consequences, creating a culture of fear and silencing those who speak up.
- Conflicts of interest: The sheriff’s inappropriate relationship with her chief of staff raises grave ethical concerns and undermines the integrity of her leadership.
- Blatant discrimination: The sheriff has been caught making racist and homophobic remarks about the very communities she is supposed to protect, eroding trust and perpetuating harm.
- Political Retaliation: The sheriff allowed the warrantless arrest of sheriff deputy and union president Carlos Tapia, who exposed corruption within the office. A thorough investigation by the district attorney's office revealed no legal basis for the arrest, concluding that Deputy Tapia had committed no wrongdoing and should never have been arrested and jailed.
- Read the 400-page report here.
Why is passing Measure A so urgent?
Passing Measure A is urgent because it ensures accountability and public trust in law enforcement leadership. There is no mechanism to remove an elected sheriff for serious misconduct, even in the form of abuse of power. Measure A would grant the Board of Supervisors the authority to swiftly address such misconduct, protect public resources, maintain integrity in the sheriff’s office, and reinforce community safety. Without Measure A, harmful behavior could persist unchecked, eroding public confidence and jeopardizing the well-being of San Mateo County residents.
When is the election?
The special election will be held on March 4, 2025. If you are a registered voter in San Mateo County, ballots will be mailed to your home the first week of February.
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