People v. Gilland

Cross-examination of complainant was proper for the purpose of impeachment (People v Schwartzman, 24 NY2d 241, 245, cert denied 396 US 846; Richardson, Evidence § 491 [Prince 10th ed]; Fisch, Evidence § 486 [2d ed]). Bias, interest, or hostility of a witness is not collateral (see, People v Webster, 139 NY 73), nor is a matter collateral when it is relevant to impeach a witness by showing a motive to lie (see, People v Brown, 26 NY2d 88, 94; People v Crandall, 48 AD2d 946, 947). Here, the issue of an allegedly false prior accusation was relevant (see, People v Hill, 52 AD2d 609, 611; People v…