P. v. Johnson CA4/1
Paul R. Johnson was charged in this case with one count of felony reckless evasion of a police officer (Veh. Code, § 2800.2, subd. (a)). It was also alleged that Johnson had suffered a serious/violent felony prior conviction (strike) (Pen. Code, § 667, subds. (b)-(i)) and three prison priors (§ 667.5, subd. (b)).
Prior to the preliminary hearing, Johnson was found not competent to stand trial (§ 1368) and he was committed to a state hospital. About three months later he was found competent and criminal proceedings were reinstated.
The case was scheduled for jury trial, however, after the voir dire process had been completed, Johnson failed to appear and a mistrial was declared.
Ultimately Johnson returned to court and entered into a plea agreement. Under that agreement, Johnson pleaded guilty to the evasion count and admitted the strike prior. The parties stipulated to a four-year term.
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