People v. Wilson CA3

BACKGROUND

On May 20, 2014, around 10:30 p.m., defendant was stopped at a driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoint and directed into the “investigation area,” where he spoke with police officer Daniel Peters. Officer Peters “was told” defendant was driving without a license. Defendant admitted his license was suspended. Officer Peters confirmed the suspension, arrested defendant, and impounded his car. Officer Peters conducted an inventory search of the car.

During the inventory search, Officer Peters found several bags of methamphetamine (totaling 37.8 grams) and other indicia of drug use and sales. Officer Peters then searched defendant’s person and found hypodermic needles and $573 in cash.

The People subsequently charged defendant with possession of methamphetamine for sale (Health & Saf. Code, § 11378) and transportation or sales of methamphetamine (Health & Saf. Code, § 11379). The People further alleged defendant was previously convicted of drug possession (Health & Saf. Code, § 11370.2, subd. (c)), served three prior prison terms (Pen. Code, § 667.5, subd. (b)), and was previously convicted of a strike offense (Pen. Code, §§ 667, subd. (d), 1170.12, subd.…