Court Watch: Judge Rejects Bid to Dismiss Case on Double Jeopardy Grounds
A judge in Newport Beach, California denied a motion to dismiss felony theft charges, ruling that the Double Jeopardy Clause did not apply in this case.
Court Watch: Judge Denies Bail Reduction for Accused in Newport Beach
Judge Derek Johnson refused to lower an accused person’s $75,000 bail, citing public safety concerns, despite the person’s financial hardship.
Court Watch: Judge Imposes $180 Restitution Fee after Public Defender Raises Homelessness, Excessive Fines Concerns
Judge Maria D. Hernandez imposed a $180 restitution fee for the accused, who was in custody and appeared in court for a change of plea from not guilty to guilty, after the public defender argued that additional financial penalties should be waived due to the accused becoming unhoused during incarceration and being entitled to protection from excessive fines under the Eighth Amendment.
Court Watch: Judge Upholds Punitive Fees for Accused Despite Financial Hardship Plea
Judge Maria D. Hernandez upheld the punitive fees and imposed additional restitution fees after the accused pleaded guilty to six counts, including felonies and misdemeanors, despite the public defender’s request for a reduction in fees due to the accused’s financial hardship.
Court Watch: Judge Grants Partial Relief, Keeps Restitution Fee Despite Defense Motion to Dismiss Charges
A judge in Newport Beach reduced charges against an accused narcotics offender and allowed him to participate in an outpatient treatment program in lieu of jail time, while maintaining a restitution fee.