People v. Sigl

Memorandum: Upon taking the witness stand on his own behalf, a defendant may be questioned concerning prior convictions, as well as vicious, immoral or illegal acts, for purposes of impeaching his credibility (People v Williams, 56 NY2d 236, 238). However, "[i]mpeachment of a witness by evidence or inquiry as to prior arrests or charges is clearly improper. The mere fact that a person has been previously charged or accused has no probative value. There is absolutely no logical connection between a prior unproven charge and that witness’ credibility. Therefore, such evidence is inadmissible as…