Skinner

Defendant was charged with possession of marijuana, in violation of section 11530 of the Health and Safety Code. After a trial by the court (trial by jury having been duly waived), he was found guilty. The criminal proceedings were suspended and in November 1961 defendant was committed to the California Rehabilitation Center under the provisions of section 6451 of the Penal Code as that section then provided. In February 1964 he was discharged from that program and was returned to the criminal court for further proceedings.

On February 21, 1964, he appeared in court before Judge Diether, represented by private counsel; the matter was continued until February 28, 1964, in another department. He next appeared before Judge Snidow on February 27,1964, still represented by the same counsel. A supplemental probation report was ordered and a further continuance, until March 12, 1964, was ordered; defendant was released on his own recognizance. On March 12, 1964, defendant, again being represented by the same counsel, the matter was again continued (by Judge Snidow) until April 16, 1964, in order to allow the probation officer more time to complete his report. Defendant did not appear on…