P. v. Ghoghas
A jury convicted appellant, Francois Ghoghas, of one count of attempted second degree robbery[1]while using a deadly and dangerous weapon, a knife.[2] He appeals his conviction, claiming the court erred in denying his motion for mistrial because it was an incurably prejudicial error for the investigating officer to mention he checked the police departments computer for appellants prior contacts. Appellant also asserts the courts order requiring him to reimburse the county $6,856.45 in legal fees and $734.36 in investigative costs must be reversed because the court imposed its order without notice, a hearing or findings regarding his ability to pay, and thus in violation of the statutory requirements for assessing the cost of court-appointed legal representation. Court find, and the People agree, appellants latter argument has merit. Accordingly, Court vacate the order assessing attorney fees and costs and remand to the trial court to conduct a noticed hearing on appellants current ability to pay such fees and costs consistent with the statutory mandates. Court affirm the judgment in all other respects.
Comments on P. v. Ghoghas