People v. Torres

Opinion

POCHÉ, Acting P. J.

In this case we conclude that a law enforcement entity that spends money to purchase illegal drugs does not thereby become a “direct victim of a crime” entitling it to receive direct restitution reimbursing it for the cash it spent on the drugs. Defendant Alberto Garcia Torres appeals from a judgment of conviction entered upon his guilty pleas to four counts of selling methamphetamine (Health & Saf. Code, § 11379, subd. (a)). On appeal defendant challenges that portion of his restitution order that requires him to repay $1,425, or the amount paid to him by the…