San Mateo County Schedules Special Election on Sheriff Oversight Powers

The March 2025 ballot will let voters decide if supervisors can remove elected sheriffs for misconduct, as Sheriff Christina Corpus faces allegations of corruption and abuse.

The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors voted 4-0 to approve a March 2025 special election on a charter amendment to allow the board to remove an elected sheriff for cause with a four-fifths vote.
Sheriff Christina Corpus is under investigation for allegations including misconduct, workplace bullying, and abuse of power, with a county-commissioned report sustaining 12 of 15 findings against her.
Supporters of the measure, including the Deputy Sheriffs Association, argue it is necessary to address toxic workplace conditions, while critics warn it could undermine voter choice and set a troubling precedent.
Corpus, who denies the allegations and has refused to resign, has hired legal counsel and may testify under oath at a Dec. 10 board meeting, which could influence a decision to cancel or postpone the election.
The special election is estimated to cost $3.8 million and is seen as a faster alternative to a citizen-initiated recall, which could take until 2025 or 2026 to organize.