The computer systems and files, offices, vehicles, and equipment are public property. These offenses were committed against the public, although apparently directed at the newly elected sheriff. There must be plenty of laws on the books dealing with such things.
The former sheriff is no longer in office. Deputies and support staff are still county employees, and presumably wish to continue their employment and careers. I'd be getting written statements from every single one as to everything said and done in that office from the time of the election until the final day of ex-sheriff's term. Put the case together, present it to the prosecutor, have any applicable charges brought, warrants or summons issued and served, then let the cases proceed in the courts. Win, lose, or draw the ex-sheriff will learn what it's like to pay legal fees and be the subject of newspaper, radio, and TV news for months and months.
This has to be done objectively and professionally, in a completely impartial manner that is no different than the way every other criminal case is handled. Might even be best to request another agency do the actual investigation (district attorney, city police, state authorities, etc) to avoid the appearance of a retaliatory vendetta. Stay on the high ground, equal justice for all, etc.
