Doggett v. State

OPINION

In November 1958, De Orval Doggett was found guilty, by jury verdict, of first degree murder and sentenced to life imprisonment, without possibility of parole.

There was a timely motion for new trial based on newly discovered evidence that Doggett “lacked mental competency” because he had been admitted to the Stockton State Hospital for “mental illness” on September 19, 1952. It was also shown that Doggett had left the hospital, without permission, July 30, 1953. The hospital records also show Doggett was not considered dangerous and their “want” request was cancelled August 14, 1953.…