Ken Binder has officially taken the helm of the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, stepping into a role marked by significant challenges and public scrutiny. Just three weeks after being selected as the new sheriff by the Board of Supervisors, Binder faces the task of revitalizing a department that has been under intense scrutiny following the removal of former Sheriff Christina Corpus in February 2024.
Binder, who previously served as the police chief in Gilroy and held a senior position at the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, is determined to restore morale and rebuild trust within the community. “On my first day, I had a management meeting with all my captains that lasted about four hours. I was briefed on a lot of things we can do to make positive changes around the office,” Binder stated. He emphasized the importance of listening to his team, highlighting that “the first thing was listening to them and making sure they’re being heard.”
The transition comes after a tumultuous year for the department, which has been plagued by allegations of a toxic workplace environment fostered by Corpus and her chief of staff, Victor Aenlle. These allegations have led to ongoing appeals and litigation, contributing to a challenging backdrop for Binder’s new leadership. Recently, Aenlle was relieved of his volunteer position within the sheriff’s concealed carry unit by Binder.
Prioritizing Jail Reforms and Community Trust
Binder’s initial focus will be on implementing jail reforms, particularly in light of multiple deaths reported in the county’s jail facilities last year, alongside complaints regarding inadequate conditions. “One concern is the jail. I plan to bring in an independent ombudsman to field complaints and work with management and complainants to resolve issues,” he said, underscoring his commitment to addressing these pressing matters.
With nearly three decades of law enforcement experience, Binder believes his background equips him well to navigate the complexities of San Mateo County’s challenges. “Over the past year, I’ve watched what’s been happening here, both in the media and through people I know in the organization,” he remarked. “My heart goes out to the department and to the county. There was a clear need, and I felt my skill set aligned well with that need.”
Unlike most sheriffs in the United States, who are elected, Binder was appointed, which he acknowledges comes with its own set of challenges. Political analyst Jason McDaniel from San Francisco State University noted that building connections with the community is critical, regardless of how the sheriff is selected. “If I were advising in that kind of political environment, I would emphasize making sure the ties to the community are strong,” McDaniel advised.
Binder recognizes the importance of establishing trust, especially in areas where former Sheriff Corpus retained support. “I will reach out to anyone who wants to see public safety done the right way,” he stated, aiming to include all segments of the community in his efforts.
Commitment to Diversity and Accountability
In addition to jail reforms, Binder has pledged to enhance successful programs within the department, including efforts to increase diversity. The current workforce comprises approximately 29% female personnel, a statistic Binder aims to improve. “We aim to do all we can so anyone wanting to work in public safety has the opportunity,” he explained.
Jim Lawrence, board chair of the citizen-led watchdog group Fixin’ San Mateo County, expressed cautious optimism regarding Binder’s leadership. He emphasized the need for “financial accountability, recruiting, and making sure the staff serving in our jails are fully trained” as essential components of restoring public trust.
As Binder begins this new chapter, he is committed to being transparent and ensuring that the department makes headlines for positive reasons. “I don’t want to know who supported Sheriff Corpus in the previous administration. It doesn’t matter to me because everyone here is an employee,” Binder concluded. His focus remains on treating all personnel fairly and equally, regardless of past affiliations.
With a clear vision for reform and an emphasis on community engagement, Ken Binder aims to lead the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office into a new era of accountability and trust.
