People v. Brown

Shorn of nonessentials, the facts in this case are as follows: The defendant, the appellant herein, was charged by complaint with the offense of robbery, i.e., a violation of section 211 of the Penal Code. A preliminary hearing was held thereon. Prior to the taking of any testimony, his attorney stated: “I would like to make a motion to exclude all unauthorized persons from the courtroom during the interval of this hearing.” Thereupon the court inquired of the district attorney and was advised that the only witness to testify on behalf of the People was the alleged victim. The court then…