Opinion ID: 1377397
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 13

Heading: Subdivisions (a)/(b) Overlap

Text: (11) The prosecutor fleetingly argued that the circumstances of the present crime (Pen. Code, § 190.3, subd. (a)) could also be considered under subdivision (b) (other violent criminal activity). In this way, the jury may have understood that the circumstances of the crime amounted to two aggravating factors. As we explained in People v. Miranda (1987) 44 Cal.3d 57, 105-106 [241 Cal. Rptr. 594, 744 P.2d 1127], the jury may not consider the same evidence under both factors (a) and (b). On this record, however, we find it difficult to believe the sheer number of asserted aggravating factors flowing from the same underlying conduct unduly prejudiced the jury. (See People v. Kimble (1988) 44 Cal.3d 480, 504-506 [244 Cal. Rptr. 148, 749 P.2d 803].)