Former Official Alleges Supervisor Defamed Her

Elizabeth Sanchez, who was asked to resign as San Bernardino County’s human resources director last year, filed a claim this week accusing Supervisor Dennis Hansberger of making defamatory comments to the media, making it difficult for her to find another job.

She also filed a claim against the county, alleging breach of contract. Both parties have 45 days to respond. Such claims can be precursors to a lawsuit.

In question was Sanchez’s alleged relationship with Jim Erwin, head of the county Safety Employees Benefit Assn., with whom she negotiated for a union contract. Hansberger has criticized the alleged relationship’s potential conflict of interest.

The state attorney general’s office last month said it would not begin a criminal investigation. Hansberger could not be reached for comment Thursday.