https://www.mercurynews.com/2022/04/27/i-deny-all-counts-embattled-santa-clara-sheriff-formally-responds-to-corruption-charges/ > SAN MATEO — Months after being charged with corruption in office in a case that could force her removal from office, Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith formally denied the accusations at a remote court hearing Tuesday. > Smith, 69, was charged by civil grand jury accusation last December of “corrupt or willful misconduct” in office, stemming from the same investigation that resulted in indictments against two of her top commanders, alleging they conspired with Smith’s political supporters and a fundraiser to broker concealed-gun permits — signed by Smith — in exchange for political donations and favors.