Case ID: ad2d_40/html/0942-04.html
Source: Caselaw Access Project
Author: {"author": "", "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://static.case.law/"}
Date Created: 2024-08-24T03:29:51.129683

(November 30, 1972)
    The People of the State of New York, Respondent, v. Robert J. Beaulieu, Appellant.
   Judgment unanimously affirmed. Memorandum: We note that the trial court’s ruling, foreclosing the People from introducing through a rebuttal witness evidence contradictory of defendant’s testimony and that of his character witnesses as to how he treated his and other children, was erroneous. It is well settled that once a defendant has introduced evidence of his good character, the prosecution may prove his bad character by cross-examining him and his witnesses and by calling rebuttal witnesses (People v. Kass, 25 N Y 2d 123; Richardson Evidence [9th ed.], §§ 156-158). In addition, the District Attorney’s offer of rebuttal testimony had a reasonable basis and was made in good faith, and did not constitute error (People v. Kass, supra; People v. Schwartzman, 24 N Y 2d 241, 244). (Appeal from judgment of Onondaga County Court, convicting defendant of manslaughter, second degree.) Present — Goldman, P. J., Del Vecchio, Witmer, Cardamone and Henry, JJ.