A San Mateo County Sheriff’s captain quit his job rather than carry out an order to arrest the head of the deputies union, who is a critic of Sheriff Christina Corpus and her second-in-command, Victor Aenlle.
On Tuesday, the Sheriff’s Office announced that it had arrested and jailed Deputy Carlos Tapia, head of the deputies union, on two charges relating to time card fraud. Tapia was released on $10,000 bail and is on administrative leave.
Hours before retired Judge LaDoris Cordell was due to release what turned out to be a scathing report about Corpus and Aenlle, Acting Assistant Sheriff of San Mateo County Matthew Fox ordered Sheriff’s Capt. Brian Philip to arrest Tapia.
The arrest was unusual since it had not been approved by the district attorney and no arrest warrant had been issued. Typically an arrest in a paperwork crime would only happen after a warrant was issued.
Philip decided to resign rather than carry out what he thought was an unlawful arrest.
County Supervisor Ray Mueller confirmed that an officer, who he did not identify, resigned when ordered to arrest Tapia.
Attempts to reach Philip for comment have not be successful.
The arrest raised eyebrows since Tapia, in his capacity as president of the San Mateo County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, had been critical of Sheriff Christina Corpus and her former chief of staff, and now assistant sheriff, Victor Aenlle. Tapia’s union along with the labor group for the sergeants in the county filed a complaint with the state Public Employment Relations Board that made various accusations against Corpus and Aenlle. And the two unions passed a resolution of no confidence against Aenlle.
Philip’s name may be familiar to Palo Alto residents because he previously was a lieutenant in the Palo Alto Police Department.
This seems to be the type of man who should be promoted to Assistant Sheriff.
Philip is a real leader. A true LE professional who cares about others. He resigned, rather than violating someone’s civil rights by carrying out unlawful orders of retaliation for the Sheriff and her BF.
This is an example of a true leader. People decide to follow you because they want to, it cannot be forced. The little dictator demands respect when Mr. Philip has earned it. Hope he comes back to the Office when the scum has been wiped away.
SMCSO just lost ANOTHER ethical professional Law Enforcement Officer because of the UNETHICAL “Sheriff” Corpus and her unqualified criminal side kick Aennle. Shame on her for even putting this man in that position in the first place! Violating a Deputies Civil Rights to lay down retaliatory punishment is egregious and outrageous! Mr. Wagstaffe! Please do your duty and charge Both of these monsters!!!! Vindicate Deputy Tapia!