People v. Dales

On this appeal from a judgment convicting defendant of the crime of uttering a forged instrument with intent to defraud (Penal Law, § 887), the primary question posed concerns the admissibility of evidence of similar crimes.

Defendant was in the business of buying and selling used cars in Oneonta, New York, and, in connection with that business, had almost daily dealings with the Citizens ’ National Bank. The transaction of which he stands convicted involved a promissory note for $700; it purported to be signed by an employee, Utter, as maker, and carried defendant’s own signature as indorser.…