People v. Ward CA2/3

INTRODUCTION

Defendant and Appellant Ronald Art Ward appeals from the trial court’s order revoking probation, arguing that the court abused its discretion in revoking probation based on a “minor violation” occurring shortly after probation was imposed. We affirm as the trial court reinstated probation on two separate occasions before determining that Ward was not a suitable candidate for probation.

FACTS AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

On September 15, 2014, Ward pleaded no contest to selling a controlled substance in violation of Health and Safety Code section 11352, subdivision (a), and misdemeanor resisting, obstructing, and delaying a peace officer in violation of Penal Code section 148, subdivision (a)(1). The court sentenced Ward to six years in local custody, suspended execution of sentence, and imposed five years of formal probation on the condition that he complete a one-year residential treatment program. The court advised Ward that if he left or was terminated from the program, he must report to the court within 48 hours. Ward twice stated that he understood the court’s warnings. The prosecutor likewise advised Ward of the terms of his plea and the consequences of…