Former O.C. sheriff secretly taped using racist and sexist language

Former Orange County Sheriff Michael S. Carona used racist and sexist language during secretly recorded conversations disclosed in court records this week, and also boasted that the benefits of public office included rubbing elbows with billionaires, drinking fine wine and getting “phenomenal” sex.

Excerpts of the transcripts were made public in a motion filed by Carona’s defense attorneys, who are trying to keep a jury from hearing certain “unfortunate” remarks. They argue the comments are “irrelevant,” not criminal in nature, and likely to offend a jury. Allowing them at trial, they contend, would result in unfair prejudice to Carona.

Carona uses the “n” word several times and discusses various sexual escapades as he talks to former Assistant Sheriff Don Haidl, who was wired and cooperating with federal authorities in a corruption investigation of Carona.

“The use of vulgar and offensive language by Don Haidl and Mike in conversations instigated by the government is both unfortunate and regrettable,” according to the motion. “Relying on their close friendship and knowing that he was taping their conversations, Mr. Haidl sought to engage Mike in private banter where the terms used by both men would be clearly offensive and embarrassing to them both if revealed to others.”

Carona, 53, resigned in January and is set to go to trial Aug. 26 on charges he misused his office to enrich himself and others, including his wife and former mistress.

At one point during his conversation with Haidl, Carona acknowledges the good life he has been afforded as sheriff.

“You’re right, I’ve had a life that’s been absolutely blessed,” he says. “I’ve met millionaires, billionaires, I’ve traveled on personal airplanes, and I never shook anybody down for any [expletive], so… . Not that I haven’t, you know, drank some great wine, and had great booze and … got some, you know, phenomenal [sex] along the way.”

 christine.hanley@latimes.com