People v. Galea CA3

BACKGROUND

In June 2022, the People charged defendant with hit and run driving resulting in death or serious injury to another person. (Veh. Code, § 20001, subd. (b)(2).) The

1 People also alleged three aggravating circumstances related to the crime and four related to the defendant. Defendant pleaded guilty to hit and run and admitted the seven aggravating factors. The court presented the factual basis for the plea: On or about May 18, 2022, defendant was driving a vehicle when he struck a person, causing them “death and serious injury.” Defendant failed to stop after striking the victim. He failed to provide reasonable assistance to the victim and failed to give his identifying information to the victim or to law enforcement at the scene. Defendant also failed to report the accident. Defense counsel joined in the plea. At sentencing, the trial court denied probation and sentenced defendant to the upper term of four years in state prison. The court imposed various fines and fees, ordered defendant to pay restitution, and awarded defendant 84 days of custody credit. Defendant appeals his conviction without a certificate of probable cause. Appointed counsel submitted a Fares…