People v. Tucker

Opinion

YEGAN, J.

Good cause for the delay of trial exists when an incarcerated criminal defendant is under quarantine to prevent the spread of infectious disease. A contrary holding would require trial court personnel, jurors, and witnesses to be exposed to debilitating and perhaps life-threatening illness. Public health concerns trump the right to a speedy trial.

Jesse Alan Tucker appeals his conviction, by jury, of grand theft of an automobile (Pen. Code, § 487, subd. (d)(1))1 and receiving stolen property. (§ 496, subd. (a).) The jury also found true an allegation that appellant had served a…