Santa Clara County DA bans employee from working again as county pays full salary

District Attorney Jeff Rosen barred deputy prosecutor Daniel Chung from returning to his position, despite a Personnel Board ruling that reinstated him. This latest decision keeps Chung, who earns over $200,000 annually, on paid leave while he pursues a civil rights lawsuit against Rosen, which is set for a hearing on September 4. Chung's attorney, Jim McManis, criticized the financial implications for the county, stating, “He’s getting paid over $200,000 to sit at home. ” Rosen's office refrained from commenting due to the ongoing litigation, framing the issue as a personnel matter. The conflict between Rosen and Chung began in 2021 when Chung criticized the DA's office in an opinion article.

Following a series of disputes, including a failed challenge to Rosen's reelection in 2022, Chung was placed on administrative leave. An arbitrator's ruling reinstated Chung but criticized his actions during a sensitive incident involving a mass shooting. As Rosen continues to deny work assignments, the situation raises questions about the use of county funds and the management of personnel issues.