Deputies Union Sued in O.C. Sheriff's Race

Supporters of Orange County sheriff candidate Michael S. Carona have sued the deputies union and other police groups, alleging they have made illegal contributions to Carona's rival, Paul M. Walters.

A group called Sheriff's Deputies for Mike Carona alleged in the suit, filed Monday in Orange County Superior Court, that the Assn. of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs and the other groups "have been acting as a campaign committee" for Walters by paying for advertisements, mailers and campaign pamphlets.

The union denied the allegations, calling the suit a last-minute attempt to sway the June 2 election.

"Not one dues penny has gone to the Walters campaign," said Robert McLeod, general manager of the deputies union. "We have a PAC, and it's in compliance with state and local laws. We know the rules."