Can a sheriff be fired behind closed doors? Advocacy group threatens to sue for access

An open government advocacy group is threatening to sue San Mateo County to ensure public access to the removal hearing for Sheriff Christina Corpus, set for August 18. Corpus has been under fire since a report alleged she violated county nepotism policies and lost control of her department. The Board of Supervisors voted to remove her following a public ballot measure, but Corpus appealed and requested a closed-door hearing, which the First Amendment Coalition argues undermines public interests. The coalition's attorney emphasized that barring the public would violate First Amendment rights. Several cities have expressed no confidence in Corpus' leadership, and her department remains in turmoil, with recent allegations of retaliation against a sergeant who testified against her.

The county's spokesperson noted that they favor a transparent process and will announce a decision regarding the hearing's openness soon. Corpus, however, denies any wrongdoing, asserting that her actions regarding the sergeant's leave were unrelated to any testimonies. The outcome of the hearing could have significant implications for law enforcement governance in the region.