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The PEOPLE of the State of New York, Respondent, v. Jean Pierre VILLAFANE, Defendant–Appellant.
On appeal from a judgment convicting him upon his plea of guilty of burglary in the first degree (Penal Law § 140.30[2] ), defendant contends that the waiver of the right to appeal is not valid and challenges the severity of the sentence. Although the record establishes that defendant knowingly, voluntarily and intelligently waived the right to appeal (see generally People v. Lopez, 6 NY3d 248, 256), we conclude that the valid waiver of the right to appeal does not encompass the challenge to the severity of the sentence because Supreme Court failed to advise defendant of the potential periods of incarceration or the potential maximum term of incarceration (see People v. Newman, 21 AD3d 1343; People v. McLean, 302 A.D.2d 934; cf. People v. Lococo, 92 N.Y.2d 825, 827; People v. Hidalgo, 91 N.Y.2d 733, 737), and there was no specific sentence promise at the time of the waiver (cf. People v. Semple, 23 AD3d 1058, 1059, lv denied 6 NY3d 852). Nevertheless, on the merits, we conclude that the sentence is not unduly harsh or severe.
It is hereby ORDERED that the judgment so appealed from is unanimously affirmed.
MEMORANDUM:
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Decided: June 15, 2012
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Get help with your legal needs
FindLaw’s Learn About the Law features thousands of informational articles to help you understand your options. And if you’re ready to hire an attorney, find one in your area who can help.
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