Sheriff recall effort established

The embattled sheriff has become a focal point in the county and beyond following the public release of a scathing investigative report detailing evidence of corruption within the Sheriff’s Office executive team. The findings in former Judge LaDoris Cordell’s 400-page report include a culture of intimidation, conflicts of interest and discrimination. 

Corpus’ attorney Bradley Gage said her legal team has filed a government claim, stating the recall effort is “discriminatory and retaliatory” because it is based on what they believe is an incomplete and biased report.

Corpus did not respond immediately for comment on the recall effort, but has repeatedly denied the allegations outlined in the report and stated her opposition to the charter amendment.

The recall effort could also be initiated if the charter amendment does pass, but the process is slowed by legal action Corpus has threatened to take against the measure, said former state Sen. Jerry Hill, a principal officer on the recall committee. 

Although he does not suspect the amendment will fail in March, Hill said the committee wants to be prepared to initiate the recall process if deemed necessary. Establishing momentum in the recall effort also adds weight to the call for Corpus’ removal through other means, Hill said. 

“We want to be prepared and ready to start gathering the signatures and declaring the effort at the appropriate time,” Hill said. 

Filing the notice of intent — which requires 100 valid signatures — to initiate the recall process will not occur until after the March 4 vote, Hill said. After an intent is filed, the recall petition would need nearly 45,000 total signatures of registered voters gathered within 160 days to qualify for placement on a ballot. 

Hill, also a former San Mateo County supervisor, emphasized his support of the charter amendment and refutes suggestions that it’s an overreach of power by the board. 

“The county’s constitution is its charter and the people create the charter and the people can amend the charter as they see fit,” Hill said. “I feel strongly that the amendment is certainly in the rights of San Mateo County to bring forward.” 

The recall committee is currently raising money for attorneys and campaigning, and will be ready to initiate the process if the time comes. Regardless of how it happens, the matter remains that Corpus should no longer be sheriff, Hill said. 

“It is our goal to be there and work hard at the appropriate time and to succeed,” Hill said. “The citizenry is certainly anxious to see the sheriff removed from office.” 

Almost the entire sworn staff in the Sheriff’s Office has asked Corpus to resign, as well as the San Carlos City Council, congressional and legislative leaders and the Board of Supervisors. Corpus has repeatedly stated she will not step down.

The full investigative report by Cordell can be accessed at www.smcgov.org/ceo/independent-investigation-sheriffs-office in addition to press conferences and statements on the matter on behalf of the county.

The county will begin mailing ballots by Monday, Feb. 3, when early voting center will also open the same day in San Mateo and Redwood City.

Visit www.smcacre.gov/election/march-4-2025-special-election for the ordinance, impartial analysis and official arguments in favor and against the charter amendment.

ana@smdailyjournal.com

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