Perez v. Wilmot

OPINION OF THE COURT

Memorandum.

The order of the Appellate Division should be reversed. A written misbehavior report by itself can constitute substantial evidence of an inmate’s misconduct (People ex rel. Vega v Smith, 66 NY2d 130). The report in this case is sufficiently *617relevant and probative to support the findings of the hearing officer. Petitioner’s bare assertion of the defense of justification does not require the hearing officer to call the charging officer as a witness. The hearing officer has no duty to cross-examine anyone, including the reporting officer (People ex rel. Vega v…