Watts
People v. Watts
Opinion
Lead Opinion
Whelan, J.
Chester Frederick Watts III (defendant) was found guilty by jury of violations of sections 459, Penal Code (burglary) in the second degree, and 470, Penal Code (uttering a forged check). He admitted two prior convictions of violations of section 470, Penal Code. He appeals from a judgment imposing consecutive sentences.
Contention on Appeal
The sole contention is that defendant was denied the right to a speedy trial guaranteed by the federal Constitution and the Constitution of California (art. I, § 13).
History of the Case
The offenses with which defendant was charged were a burglarious entry into the building occupied by Marko Company, and the passing of one of two forged checks, the forms for which had been stolen in the burglary. The burglary and the check-passing were done on Saturday, December 23,1967.
A complaint was filed in the municipal court on January 4, 1968, charging defendant with the burglary, and an arrest warrant issued thereon.
On January 5, 1968, Officer Duvall received information from Sergeant Robinson of the Los Angeles Police Department advising him that the suspect, Chester Watts III, was in custody and awaiting trial on a charge of burglary.