In Re Walters

Opinion

PUGLIA, P. J.

Petitioner seeks a writ of habeas corpus vindicating his claim the Sacramento Superior Court lacked jurisdiction to sentence him in absentia under Penal Code section 1203.2a. We hold that under section 1203.2a the superior court must impose sentence within 30 days of receipt of a prisoner’s request to be sentenced in absentia, failing which, the superior court loses jurisdiction. As a consequence of our holding, petitioner is entitled to a writ.

I

On January 27, 1994, the superior court suspended imposition of judgment and sentence on petitioner’s plea of no contest to…