People v. Salazar

OPINION OF THE COURT

John M. Leventhal, J.

The issue of first impression to be determined by this court is whether a defendant can forfeit his statutory right to a speedy trial. This question is answered in the affirmative.

procedural history

The defendant had moved this court to dismiss the indictment on statutory speedy trial grounds (CPL 30.30). The People filed opposition papers. After oral argument, this court granted a hearing to determine the reasons for the 182-day delay from December 10, 1997 until June 10, 1998. (People v Salazar, NYLJ, Nov. 17, 1998, at 32, col 3.) The People argue…