Bill > A00053

This bill modifies the criminal procedure law to allow evidence of a defendant's prior crimes or acts to be admitted in criminal trials under specific circumstances. The bill establishes that while such evidence cannot be used to prove a person's character or suggest they are likely to commit a crime, it can be introduced for other purposes such as demonstrating motive, intent, knowledge, identity, or a common plan. In cases involving sexual offenses, evidence of prior sexual offenses is explicitly made admissible. The prosecution must provide reasonable advance notice of such evidence to the defense. The court retains discretion to exclude this evidence if its potential to unfairly prejudice the defendant outweighs its probative value. The bill defines "sexual offense" broadly to include acts proscribed under specific sections of the penal law, including attempts or conspiracies to commit such acts, and extends to offenses committed in any jurisdiction. This legislation aims to provide prosecutors with more flexibility in presenting evidence while maintaining safeguards against unfair treatment of defendants.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A53