United States v. Julian Katzman

Julian Katzman appeals from a conviction for “bail jumping” in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 3150 .

On July 29, 1970, Katzman was released on bail by the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. His trial was scheduled for September 8, 1970. Katzman went to Texas.

Katzman met with his attorney in August, and discussed the possibility of obtaining a continuance of his trial. The trial was reset for October 20, 1970. Katzman lost contact with his attorney. A codefendant testified that he told Katzman the trial was reset for “September.” Katzman testified that he thought it was “December.” The attorney testified that he tried unsuccessfully five times between September 14 and October 10 to reach Katzman through a person Katzman had designated for that purpose. On September 17, 1970, Katz-man did not appear for a hearing on a motion, and on September 24, 1970, forfeiture of the bond was ordered and a bench warrant was issued.

On November 24, 1970, Katzman approached two police officers in a Houston, Texas, bar and said, “I’m wanted by the F.B.I. in California for bank robbery. I want to give myself up. Let’s have a drink.” The officers verified with the…