People v. Arias

BAXTER, J., Concurring.

I agree with the majority that defendant’s conviction for using a false compartment is not supported by substantial evidence. As the majority explains, a false compartment within the meaning of *185Health and Safety Code section 11366.8 (section 11366.8) is a compartment that is “constructed in a manner to intentionally deceive an untrained observer by concealing its existence,” analogous to a suitcase with a false bottom. (Maj. opn., ante, at p. 179.) In this case, the compartment defendant used was the space under the steering column and behind the dashboard. Although…