Corpus former assistant sheriff testifies on warrantless arrest of union president

The San Mateo County hearing focused on Sheriff Christina Corpus' potential removal continued Thursday, with testimony revolving around the warrantless arrest of union president Carlos Tapia. Corpus ordered Tapia's arrest for timecard fraud, but District Attorney Stephen Wagstaffe later dismissed the charges, declaring no crime had occurred. This arrest has fueled allegations of retaliation, as Tapia had been a vocal critic of Corpus and her chief of staff. Key witnesses, including former assistant sheriff Matthew Fox, provided insight into the investigation leading to Tapia's arrest, citing discrepancies in his timecards. The decision to arrest was influenced by an audit that raised concerns about Tapia's coding of DSA-related hours.

Corpus' actions have drawn scrutiny following a 400-page investigation that accused her of fostering a culture of intimidation. The ongoing proceedings reflect the significant internal conflicts within the sheriff's office and the Board of Supervisors' efforts to address leadership issues. The outcome of this hearing may have lasting implications for the governance of the sheriff's department.