State v. Torres

This case presents an issue of first impression, whether an experienced police officer who specializes in street gang investigations should be permitted to give expert testimony on “gang” hierarchy, organization, and discipline. The trial court found the expert was qualified to testify and admitted the testimony. On appeal before the Appellate Division, defendant challenged the jury charge on accomplice liability and the use of expert testimony related to gangs. In an unpublished opinion, the Appellate Division affirmed. We granted defendant’s petition for certification and now affirm. We…