People v. Jackson

In an information defendant Florence Vaughn Jackson was charged with grand theft (Pen. Code, § 487, subd. (1)). Therein it was further alleged that the funds which she intentionally took exceeded $100,000 (Pen. Code, § 12022.6, subd. (b)).

On January 22, 1985, defendant waived her right to a jury trial and agreed to have her case determined by Judge Everette Ricks sitting as the trier of fact.

On December 6, 1985, defendant submitted the issue of her guilt, in part, on the transcript of the preliminary hearing. Appropriate waivers were taken and defendant acknowledged that in all probability she would be found guilty. Trial commenced before Judge Ricks and additional testimony was heard. An adjournment was thereafter taken until December 13, 1985.

On that day, the trial concluded. Judge Ricks found defendant “guilty of the charge in this matter,” but made no finding on the excessive taking allegation. The probation and sentencing hearing was scheduled for January 31, 1986.

On January 31, 1986, defendant failed to appear. Judge Ricks issued a bench warrant and ordered that it be held until March 7, 1986.

On March 7, 1986, defendant appeared before Judge Ronald E.…