A previously confidential investigation into Sheriff Christina Corpus’ claims against San Mateo County Executive Mike Callagy, including allegations of racism, harassment and political sabotage, found nearly all her accusations to be unsubstantiated, according to a newly released report made public by the Board of Supervisors.
In the news
This page contains news article for those interested in all facets of law enforcement oversight and reform. These articles span all states and cover police departments as well as Sheriff's departments. We're providing this information for those who wish to better understand why oversight is needed, the challenges it faces, and where and how it has improved the communities that have adopted it. News articles from external sources will open in a new tab.
State opens jail death review office; County cases under scrutiny
A new state office has been tasked to review local jail deaths throughout California and make recommendations for potential changes in practices or policies involving inmate custody. During a community presentation via Zoom Tuesday night, May 6, Ganter talked about the division, its responsibilities, and what it expects from local jurisdictions statewide. The session comes amid scrutiny over the deaths of six inmates in San Mateo County over the past two years.
Procedures for Sheriff Corpus removal approved with some amendments
The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday unanimously advanced a set of procedures that could lead to the removal of embattled Sheriff Christina Corpus, moving the process forward with some amendments.
A timeline of the Sheriff Corpus saga
San Mateo County voters decided on Tuesday to amend the county charter to give the Board of Supervisors the authority to fire Sheriff Christina Corpus over allegations of corruption. The saga of Sheriff Corpus dates back to 2021. Here’s a timeline.
Fixin’ San Mateo County Calls for Immediate Action Following Apparent Passage of Measure A
Today, the voters of San Mateo County took a historic step toward accountability and transparency in law enforcement. With the apparent passage of Measure A, the Board of Supervisors now has the authority to remove the county sheriff—ensuring that no one is above the law. This victory marks a turning point for our community, and we commend the residents of San Mateo County for demanding meaningful reform.
“This has been a long and difficult road, but the people have spoken. Now, our elected leaders must act without delay,” said Jim Lawrence, Board Chair of Fixin’ San Mateo County. “It is time for the Board of Supervisors to establish permanent, independent civilian oversight of the Sheriff’s Office—our community cannot afford further inaction.”
Fixin’ San Mateo County has led a broad coalition in pursuit of reform. Six local governments representing 60% of the county’s population endorsed our efforts, alongside more than 35 organizations advocating for stronger oversight. The county has paid out over $13 million in settlements related to misconduct in the past four years, with millions more in pending lawsuits and the costs of special elections. The status quo is unsustainable.
With Measure A’s passage, the Board of Supervisors has a mandate from the voters. They must immediately use their authority under AB 1185 to support and strengthen the Independent Civilian Advisory Commission on the Sheriff’s Office (ICAC) and establish an independent Inspector General’s office which should work closely with ICAC. These mechanisms are essential for restoring public trust, ensuring transparency, and preventing future crises.
At the same time, Fixin’ San Mateo County remains steadfast in our support for the hardworking deputies who risk their lives to protect our community. True public safety requires both accountability and trust between law enforcement and the people they serve.
The time for discussion is over. The voters have made their will clear. We call on the Board of Supervisors to act now—our community’s future depends on it.
Early results show ballot measure to oust sheriff appears headed to landslide victory
Returns from early mail-in and dropbox ballots, as well as all in-person Vote Center votes, show Yes leading the Measure A special election by a margin of more than 70 points.
San Mateo latest to call for sheriff’s resignation
San Mateo joins several Peninsula cities in calling on San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus to resign amid a scandal-filled term that’s resulted in a scathing investigative report, the resignation of more than 100 sworn staff, numerous claims of retaliation and the controversial arrest of a union leader.
Lawsuit filed against San Mateo County, sheriff
Former Capt. Brian Philip, who resigned from the Sheriff’s Office in November, filed a lawsuit against San Mateo County alleging whistleblower retaliation, wrongful termination, gender discrimination and workplace violations under Sheriff Christina Corpus’ administration.
Sheriff files complaint against San Mateo County
A formal complaint was filed by Sheriff Christina Corpus’ attorneys against the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors and Chief Elections Officer Mark Church for allegedly violating the state’s election code with the slated charter amendment vote in March, another effort to discredit the election by the embattled sheriff.
Statement from the County of San Mateo Regarding Sheriff’s $10 Million Government Claim & Release of Full Report Transcript
The following is a statement from the County of San Mateo in response to a $10 million government claim filed by Sheriff Christina Corpus. The statement also addresses an allegation in the claim regarding allegedly missing transcript pages in an exhibit to the independent report and the cost of the investigation.