People v. Burwell

57 A.D.3d 555, 867 N.Y.2d 701, 56 A.D.2d 577, 867 N.Y.S.2d 496

Opinion

The defendant’s challenge to the legal sufficiency of the evidence is unpreserved for appellate review (see CPL 470.05 [2]; People v Gray, 86 NY2d 10, 19-20 [1995]). 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 establish the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt (see People v Smith, 16 AD3d 602 [2005]).

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]).

The defendant’s contention that the Supreme Court did not provide a meaningful response to a jury question is unpreserved for appellate review (see CPL 470.05 [2]; People v Slacks, 90 NY2d 850 [1997]). In any event, the Supreme Court responded meaningfully to the note from the jury (see CPL 310.30; People v Malloy, 55 NY2d 296 [1982], cert denied 459 US 847 [1982]; People v Hayes, 48 AD3d 831 [2008]). Ritter, J.P, Florio, Miller and Dillon, JJ., concur.