People v. Blyden

Contrary to the defendant’s contention, the court properly denied the defense counsel’s peremptory challenge to a white juror, finding that the proffered explanations therefor were pretextual (see, Batson v Kentucky, 476 US 79; People v Allen, 86 NY2d 101; People v Richie, 217 AD2d 84). The court’s determination is entitled to great deference on appeal, and will not be disturbed where, as here, it is supported by the record (see, People v Jenkins, 221 AD2d 659; People v Waldo, 221 AD2d 390; People v Rivera, 220 AD2d 782; People v Pollard, 219 AD2d 737).

The defendant’s contention that it was…