People v. Zavaleta

Defendant was charged with possession of heroin in violation of section 11500, Health and Safety Code, and two prior felony convictions—grand theft from the person and possession of narcotics. He pleaded not guilty, denied the prior convictions and personally waived his right to a jury trial. The matter was heard by the court which found him guilty and that he had been previously convicted as charged; from the judgment and sentence he appeals.

The People’s case consisted of the testimony of the two police officers who arrested defendant. On March 26, 1959, around 10 a.m., Officers Dorrell and…