People v. Collins CA4/1

INTRODUCTION

Charles Collins appeals from a judgment finding him mentally incompetent,

committing him to a state hospital, and ordering the administration of antipsychotic

medication. Collins contends we must reverse the judgment because the court denied

him the ability to speak at his commitment hearing, improperly allowed the parties to

stipulate to his evaluation by one doctor, committed him without sufficient evidentiary

support, and ordered the administration of psychotropic medication without sufficient

evidentiary support. We conclude the appeal is moot and dismiss it.

BACKGROUND

In an amended complaint, the People charged Collins with one count of assault

with a deadly weapon on a peace officer (Pen. Code,1 § 245, subd. (c)) and one count of

assault with a deadly weapon (§ 245, subd. (a)(1)). As to the latter charge, the People

also alleged Collins personally used a deadly weapon during the commission of the

offense (§ 1192.7, subd. (c)(23)).

After arraigning Collins on the complaint, the court set a readiness hearing. At the

readiness hearing, defense counsel informed the court she had spoken with Collins and

had a doubt about his competency. She requested…