San Mateo County Sheriff’s captains call for embattled Sheriff Corpus to step down

All five San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office captains have formally asked for the resignation of embattled Sheriff Christina Corpus, according to an internal department email obtained by the Bay Area News Group.

The email, addressed to Corpus, also calls for the resignation of Victor Aenlle, her former chief of staff, who she recently promoted to assistant sheriff, as well as Undersheriff Dan Perea.

“We hope that his matter is addressed with the seriousness it warrants, and we hope you will take the necessary actions to move forward,” Capt. Frank Del Porto wrote in the email.

The email’s authenticity was confirmed by two law enforcement sources on the condition of anonymity out of fears of retribution.

The email, dated Monday, Nov. 18, does not explain the vote of no confidence by the captains. However, it was sent the same day state and congressional lawmakers called for Corpus to step down over an explosive audit alleging widespread misconduct by her and department leadership.

The 400-plus-page report found Corpus, the county’s first Latina sheriff, repeatedly retaliated against officers and employees, used racist and homophobic slurs, and had an inappropriate personal relationship with Aenlle.

“Lies, secrecy, intimidation, retaliation, conflict of interest, and abuses of authority are the hallmarks of the Corpus administration,” wrote retired Judge LaDoris Cordell, who authored the report released last week.

Corpus has vehemently denied the accusations, describing the report and calls for her resignation as part of a politically motivated “coup” organized by those threatened by her efforts to reform the department.

In a statement provided to the Bay Area News Group, Corpus said, “While I am disappointed with the comments of the Captains, I am committed to moving forward, improving our workplace environment, and healing relationships.”

“Despite all the political games, I am so proud of the fact that there has been no increased public safety risk because the women and men of this office continue to do the hard work of protecting and serving the people of San Mateo County,” she added.

Capt. Del Porto, the author of the email, did respond to a request for comment.

Last week, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors also officially called for Corpus to step down. Then, on Tuesday, the board voted to send a measure before voters in March that would temporarily grant the board authority to remove Corpus from office.

The moves followed a no-confidence vote in September by the unions representing rank-and-file deputies and sergeants. The unions have been involved in a protracted labor dispute with department management.

Carlos Tapia, president of the San Mateo County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, turned himself in last week on felony charges related to alleged time card fraud. Corpus denied the arrest was made in retaliation.

Staff reporter Jakob Rodgers contributed to this report.