In Re Anthony P.

Anthony Dwayne P., a 17-year-old minor, appeals from the order continuing wardship (Welf. & Inst. Code, § 602) entered upon findings that he molested a child under the age of 18 and committed battery (Pen. Code, §§ 647a, 242). He was committed to the Youth Authority for a maximum period of confinement of six years and two months, with credit for 553 days of previous custody. He contends:

Facts and Proceedings Below

The complaining witness Deborah M., a 15-year-old white girl, and the appellant, a 17-year-old black, were students at Taft High School in Los Angeles. According to Deborah M.’s testimony at trial, she was standing near her locker during fifth period when appellant approached and asked for a date. Ms. M. refused and started to walk away. Ms. M. testified appellant then followed her and repeatedly grabbed her in the area of her bust, buttocks and crotch. Ms. M. fled and appellant followed. She ultimately saw schoolmate Michael P. and requested his assistance. During cross-examination, appellant’s counsel asked Ms. M. whether she had “a prejudice against black people,” to which she responded in the negative. Counsel next asked, “Would it offend you if a black…