People v. Closson

Upon bench trial, defendant was convicted of driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor. Sentence of seven days was imposed. Defendant appeals.

It is urged that the court erred in accepting an oral waiver of jury trial made by defendant’s retained counsel. Following arrest on February 18th, defendant appeared on February 19th to plead not guilty. The cause was set for jury trial on April 7th. A series of continuances ensued at defendant’s request: (1) to May 13th for further time to procure counsel for jury trial; (2) to June 7th on request of defendant’s counsel who negotiated a…