People v. Porter CA1/3

BACKGROUND

In August 2024, Porter was charged with attempted second degree robbery, and it was alleged he personally used a deadly weapon. (§§ 211, 664, 12022, subd. (b)(1).) After his attorney declared a doubt about Porter’s competence, the trial court suspended the proceedings and appointed two medical professionals to evaluate his mental status and assess the need for the involuntary administration of medication. [REDACTED]

1 At an October 2024 hearing, both parties submitted on the issue of competency, and the trial court found Porter incompetent to stand trial. It requested a recommendation for his placement to restore competency and scheduled a hearing to address placement; it also observed both psychologists recommended involuntary medication and indicated it would “take argument” at the commitment hearing.1 At a November 2024 hearing, defense counsel objected to the recommendation regarding placement, and the People submitted on it. The trial court ordered Porter committed to the State Department of State Hospitals. Turning to the issue of involuntary medication, and reiterating the psychologists’ opinions, the court invited argument. Defense counsel argued Porter was…