National Figure Joins Sheriff Corpus' Legal Team, Exposing Overtime Abuses

A Legal Battle Over Sheriff’s Removal

A high-profile legal figure has joined the team representing San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus, who is facing a lawsuit from each county supervisor aimed at removing her from office. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday in San Francisco Federal Court, and exclusive details will be shared by ABC7 News.

Background on Tom Perez

Tom Perez, known for his extensive career in both politics and the Department of Justice, is now appearing in federal court on behalf of Sheriff Corpus. His professional journey includes roles such as a civil rights prosecutor under both Republican and Democratic administrations, leading the Civil Rights Division during President Obama's tenure, and serving as Labor Secretary. He also chaired the Democratic National Committee and was a senior adviser in the Biden White House.

Perez recently spoke with ABC7 News about his decision to take on this local case, emphasizing broader principles of fairness. “There's a broader principle that is as old as the republic here. It's the principle of fairness,” he said.

The Lawsuit and Its Implications

Sheriff Corpus has filed a lawsuit against each county supervisor, seeking a permanent injunction to prevent them from removing her from office. According to Perez, the five-person board acts as an investigator, prosecutor, judge, jury, and potentially the executioner in this case.

Under Measure A, a retired judge conducts a hearing and issues a ruling, but the supervisors are not bound by that decision. Even if the judge rules in Corpus’s favor, the supervisors could still proceed with her removal. Perez pointed out that Supervisors Noelia Corzo and Ray Mueller have already shown bias, stating, “Two out of the five supervisors have already said she's guilty. They are two of the five members of the jury. That is not right.”

Response from the Supervisors

ABC7 News reached out to Andrew Dawson, the attorney representing all five supervisors, more than a week ago. He responded with an email stating, “I am in court and unavailable on Monday, 7/28. I will get back to you when I am able.” He has not provided further comments since then.

The response from Dawson’s side in federal court argues that the county is attempting to re-litigate the case in federal court after losing in state court. “Having lost in state court, Plaintiff seeks a do-over here. But that is not a proper basis for federal jurisdiction, and Plaintiff's forum shopping must be rejected,” the filing states. Dawson also claims that Corpus has not exhausted the administrative process, pointing to the multi-day hearing before the retired judge starting August 18th.

Key Developments in the Case

Perez expressed pride in representing Corpus and being part of the team, noting there has been a rush to judgment. He highlighted recent developments, including the county dropping its most salacious accusation that Sheriff Corpus and her chief of staff had a romantic relationship. “They threw that one against the wall and it didn't stick because that dog doesn't hunt,” he said. “And so now, you shouldn't hire someone that you are close with, that is a close friend. When you win - well, then there should be, elected officials across the country who should be removed from office if they can't hire people they know.”

Origins of the Conflict

Perez explained that the conflict began with a battle between the sheriff and the unions over overtime pay. “A number of officers were making literally hundreds of thousands of dollars in one year. You have to wonder, is the overtime system working? She was asking those questions. And, you know, apparently some people didn't want those questions to be asked,” he said.

Public records show that one deputy earned $480,000 in overtime last year, totaling $823,000 in pay and benefits. Others doubled their salary, with another deputy bringing home $411,000 and a sergeant earning $632,000. Many of the deputies and higher-ups who supported her opponent in the election still work at the sheriff’s department.

Perez added, “They lost the election in June of 2022, and they've never stopped fighting against her to bring her down. That's not fair.”

Possible Outcomes

Perez believes the supervisors should drop their process to remove the sheriff under “Measure A” and allow the civil grand jury's case to play out. This could also result in Corpus leaving office. He also points out that the sheriff’s detractors could have pursued a recall, which might have been simpler and perhaps cheaper.

For more updates, viewers can check the ABC7 News app for live coverage.