People v. Giles

OPINION OF THE COURT

Sullivan, J.

Under People v Molineux (168 NY 264 [1901]), the People generally may not introduce evidence that the defendant has committed an uncharged crime. Evidence of uncharged crimes attributable to the defendant is admissible, however, if relevant, to prove motive, intent, absence of mistake, identity or common plan or scheme (id. at 293). The list of relevant considerations warranting the admission of uncharged crimes evidence is merely illustrative, not exhaustive, and such evidence may also be used to establish an element of the crime charged (People v Alvino, 71…