Thompson v. Superior Court

*147Opinion

ALDRICH, J.

In this case, we must decide whether the People are required to present evidence supporting “Three Strikes” prior conviction allegations at preliminary hearings. Petitioner Jermaine Marquice Thompson was charged with possession of cocaine. The complaint also alleged he had suffered two prior convictions within the meaning of the Three Strikes law. While acknowledging that California courts have held proof of strike priors is not required at preliminary hearings, Thompson argues that in light of the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Apprendi v. New Jersey (2000) 530…