Measure A public hearing to decide future of San Mateo County Sheriff Corpus kicks off

The public hearing to assess the future of San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus begins Monday and is projected to last up to 10 days. This hearing follows Corpus' appeal against her removal by the Board of Supervisors, a move facilitated by Measure A, which voters approved in a recent special election. Retired Judge James Emerson will preside over the hearing, which will follow the procedural rules of the San Mateo County Superior Court. Each side will have up to five days to present their evidence and call witnesses, while public attendance will be limited to a first-come, first-served basis without live streaming or cameras. Emerson is required to submit his written opinion within 45 days after the hearing ends, providing a recommendation on whether there is cause for removal.

The definition of "cause" includes violations of law related to the sheriff's duties and neglect of duty, among other factors. The Board of Supervisors will have 30 days to make a final decision based on Emerson's recommendation. The county continues to affirm its commitment to transparency and accountability throughout this unprecedented process.