Key witnesses testify on nature of Sheriff Corpus relationship with chief of staff

Three witnesses testified in the removal hearing for San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus, alleging an inappropriate relationship with chief of staff Victor Aenlle. Former employee Daniel Guiney, who initially supported Corpus, labeled her a liar, stating they were rarely apart. The hearings follow a 400-page investigation led by retired Judge LaDoris Cordell, which accused Corpus of fostering a culture of intimidation and retaliation. The county Board of Supervisors opted for a charter amendment, Measure A, allowing them to remove her, which voters approved in a special election. Corpus, describing bullying and harassment, insists she is a victim of a conformist culture within the Sheriff’s Office.

Her attorney, Tom Perez, contends that misinformation influenced the Measure A vote. Witness Valerie Barnes, a former friend of Corpus, testified about their alleged romantic involvement, providing details of physical interactions. The hearings are a critical step in the county's process to remove Corpus from office.