Gazing at Arpaio from row two of Courtroom 602 was slightly surreal. Gone was the blustering tough guy who appeared on camera countless times, who bragged about pink underwear, threatened political opponents and spent taxpayer money as though it was his personal ATM.

That Sheriff Joe was replaced by a cowed, pale 80-something who repeatedly mumbled “I don’t know, I don’t recall” in answer to questions.

The scene was nearly Shakespearean – until you realized it was simply another act. Joe Arpaio has many personas. He can be charming, imperial, contemptuous, humble. Yet every move is calculated. Arpaio has carefully constructed a cult of personality over decades – he’s not about to go quietly into that good night.

Last week’s hearing will impact those who fervently support him, but not in the way any reasonable person might expect. Joe’s supporters behave as acolytes worshipping at the feet of a god. They will now paint the sheriff as a victim.

Some victim. Arpaio admitted to violating the 2011 federal injunction for a full 18 months after its issuance. He also admitted that his “legal counsel” hired confidential informants and PIs to investigate the Department of Justice and Judge Snow’s own wife. Has he violated his oath of office? Well, “he didn’t mean to,” he insisted.

Arpaio’s cowardice was on full display. After firmly asserting that he was the leader responsible for all-things MCSO, he proceeded to blithely toss his officers and attorneys under the bus. When asked why he was unaware of the injunction, he replied (paraphrase), “I delegate those kinds of things to my subordinates and my counsel.”

Last, consider the Arpaio boast from an aptly titled documentary, ‘The Joe Show:’ “People love me. It’s amazing what I say; what I do; what I get away with.”

No more, Joe. Snow has come to Arizona.