People v. Spells, 66 A.D.3d 924

Ordered that the judgment is affirmed.

The defendant’s contention that the prosecution failed to disprove his justification defense by legally sufficient evidence is unpreserved for appellate review (see CPL 470.05 [2]; People v Hawkins, 11 NY3d 484 [2008]; People v Smiley, 303 AD2d 425 [2003]; People v Nery, 243 AD2d 585 [1997]; People v Reeder, 209 AD2d 551 [1994]). In any event, viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the prosecution (see People v Contes, 60 NY2d 620, 621 [1983]), we find that it was legally sufficient to disprove the defendant’s justification defense beyond a reasonable doubt (see Penal Law § 35.15; People v Dominguez, 226 AD2d 391 [1996]; People v Reeder, 209 AD2d 551 [1994]; People v Torres, 182 AD2d 788 [1992]).

In fulfilling our responsibility to conduct an independent review of the weight of the evidence (see CPL 470.15 [5]; People v Danielson, 9 NY3d 342 [2007]), we nevertheless accord great deference to the jury’s opportunity to view the witnesses, hear the testimony, and observe demeanor (see People v Mateo, 2 NY3d 383, 410 [2004], cert denied 542 US 946 [2004]; People v Bleakley, 69 NY2d 490, 495 [1987]). Upon reviewing the record here, we are satisfied that the verdict of guilt was not against the weight of the evidence (see People v Romero, 7 NY3d 633 [2006]). Rivera, J.P., Florio, Miller and Austin, JJ., concur.

Case Details

Case Name: People v. Spells

Court Name: Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York

Date Published: Oct 20, 2009

Citations: 66 A.D.3d 924; 886 N.Y.S.2d 625

Court Abbreviation: N.Y. App. Div.