In Re Randy G.

Randy G., a minor, appeals from an order of the Juvenile Court declaring him a ward of the court by reason of his violation of Penal Code section 626.10 (possession of a locking blade knife on school grounds). [1] Following the declaration of wardship, Randy was placed home on probation. Randy timely filed his notice of appeal.

The only issue presented in this appeal is whether the knife that was seized from Randy's person was obtained in violation of his Fourth Amendment rights. Viewed in accordance with the customary rules governing appellant review ( People v. Leyba (1981) 29 Cal.3d 591, 596-598 , 174 Cal. Rptr. 867 , 629 P.2d 961 ), the evidence adduced at the suppression hearing held in the Juvenile Court revealed the following: [2]

"On March 16, 1999, Cathy Worthy was on duty as a Montebello High School Campus Security Officer.... During class passing time, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Worthy found appellant and a friend between a building and the auditorium, an area in which students were prohibited from congregating.... Appellant looked at Worthy and very nervously fixed the lining of his left pocket which had been protruding....

"Worthy then asked the…