Embattled Sheriff Mike Carona, who’s set to go trial on federal corruption charges in June, is resigning to focus on his defense, according to a statement on the Sheriff Department’s Web site.
“Over the past few weeks it has become clear to me that the interests of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and the residents of Orange County would be best served if I am not distracted from my duties while defending the charges recently brought against me by the federal government,” Carona wrote in a blog.
“As a consequence, I have worked closely with my staff to assure that my departure from the Orange County Sheriff Department will not materially disrupt its operations or the very capable leadership structure that I have been privileged to work with over the years,” he said.
Carona said his resignation is effective today. He said his family and lawyers advised him that it is “the right time to take my retirement.”
Undersheriff JoAnn Galisky is set to run the department until the Board of Supervisors appoints a replacement.
Carona faces conspiracy, mail fraud and witness tampering charges. His wife and alleged mistress also have been charged in the case.
Lawyers at the U.S. Attorney’s office in Santa Ana allege Carona enriched himself, his wife and his mistress by trading favors for cash and gifts.
Before Monday’s announcement, Carona had recently returned to his job after a leave of absence.
