In Re Darrell T.

Darrell T., a minor, appeals from the juvenile court order of wardship (Welf. & Inst. Code, § 602) upon a finding that he murdered Bradley Kevin Phillips in violation of Penal Code section 187. He was committed to the California Youth Authority (CYA) and a previous order for camp community placement was terminated. He now appeals from the judgment (order of commitment), contending (1) that the court erred in denying his motion to obtain a copy of the transcript of the fitness hearing of James McDaniels, “a severed co-minor,” and one of appellant’s witnesses; (2) that there was insufficient evidence to sustain the petition as to the murder; (3) that he was denied his right to a fair trial when witness McDaniels was permitted to invoke his privilege against self-incrimination; and (4) that the court erred in denying his request to have the witnesses Mark Edwards, Nicardo P. and Michael P. (who had been granted immunity) examined by a psychiatrist.

On April 19, 1977, there was gang hostility and antagonism between various “Crip” factions and the “Fives.” The Crips were not a gang per se but were factions that used the name “Crips” after another name. These factions included…