Embattled El Paso sheriff defends himself

El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa is defending himself before the county commissioners, who have asked him to resign amid allegations including sexual misconduct.

Maketa told the commissioners Tuesday he’s performing his duties as well as or better than the community expects.

The commissioners voted last week to ask Maketa to resign.

Maketa is elected, and a recall vote would be required to remove him. Opponents are gathering signatures on a recall petition.

Maketa is term-limited and will leave office in January. A recall election would be in November.

He’s been accused of having affairs with three female subordinates, along with discrimination, budget improprieties and creating a hostile work environment.

He has apologized for what he called inappropriate behavior but said he wouldn’t resign.