Bill > A06203

This bill amends the New York criminal procedure law to allow prosecutors to introduce evidence of a defendant's prior sexual offenses during a criminal trial involving a sexual offense charge. Specifically, the bill permits courts to admit evidence of other sexual offenses under similar rules used in federal courts (28 USC 413), with certain conditions. The evidence can be used to demonstrate the defendant's motive, intent, absence of mistake, existence of a common scheme, or identity. Before admitting such evidence, the court must determine that its probative value (usefulness in proving a fact) outweighs its potential prejudicial effect on the defendant. The prosecutor must disclose any such evidence to the defense at least 15 days before the trial, or later if the court allows for good cause. The bill defines "sexual offense" broadly, covering various sexual conduct prohibited under specific sections of the New York Penal Law. The legislation will take effect 60 days after becoming law and will apply to all cases pending on or after that date. The goal of this bill appears to be providing prosecutors with more flexibility in presenting evidence of a defendant's past sexual offenses to help establish patterns or credibility in current sexual offense cases.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6203