People v. DeGuzman

Opinion

FROEHLICH, J.

Hermogenes DeGuzman (DeGuzman) appeals a trial court ruling revoking his status as an outpatient and returning him to Patton State Hospital (Patton). He contends the court erred in using a lesser standard of proof than “beyond a reasonable doubt,” and in considering concerns of public safety in determining that his outpatient status should be revoked.

Factual and Procedural Background

'DeGuzman is a paranoid schizophrenic. In 1975 he stabbed his wife to death and then unsuccessfully attempted to take his own life. The trial court found him not guilty of murder by reason of…