People v. Trotter CA2/3

background in prior nonpublished opinions, most recently in People v. Trotter (Feb. 27, 2023, B319451) (Trotter IV). We incorporate our prior recitations of the facts and relevant procedural background as noted below.1

I. Proceedings Prior to the Instant Appeal

A. Underlying offense, plea, and initial post-plea proceedings “In 1986, when Trotter was 24 years old, he broke into the home of Charlene Hartsough to obtain money for drugs. While Trotter was in the middle of the burglary, Hartsough returned home. Trotter killed Hartsough by strangling her with a telephone cord and striking her head with a heavy candlestick. He ransacked the home and took a video cassette recorder and

1 We also draw background from our earlier nonpublished opinions in People v. Trotter (Oct. 29, 2003, B160437) (Trotter I), People v. Trotter (Sept. 3, 2021, B309637) (Trotter II), and People v. Trotter (Dec. 29, 2021, B310316) (Trotter III).

2 some jewelry. Trotter surrendered himself to the police before the crime was discovered. “In 1988, Trotter pleaded guilty to first degree murder (Pen. Code, § 187, subd. (a))2, robbery (§ 211), and residential burglary (§ 459) in exchange for a sentence of life…