San Francisco Sheriff Ross Mirkarimi was in court Thursday to face three misdemeanors charges stemming from an alleged domestic violence incident.
The former supervisor is being charged with one count of domestic violence battery, one count of child endangerment and one count of dissuading a witness.
A neighbor reported seeing Mirkarimi fight with his wife outside their San Francisco home last month.
Thursday the newly-elected sheriff pleaded not guilty to the charges with friends and constituents in the courtroom to show their support.
Among those in the courtroom showing support were former San Francisco mayor Art Agnos and Tami Bryant.
She said she doesn't believe Mirkarimi did what he's accused of and she described him as a kind and gentle man who loves his wife.
In addition to pleading not guilty, Mirkarimi's lawyers were expected to ask that a stay barring him from entering his home be lifted.
The judge said she inclined to continue stay order but will hear from the wife. Eliana Mirkarimi's lawyers said she she doesn't want the stay order and she doesn't feel in danger.
