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The PEOPLE, etc., respondent, v. Natasha ELDER, appellant.
Appeal by the defendant from a judgment of the Supreme Court, Kings County (Rivera, J.), rendered December 20, 2001, convicting her of assault in the first degree, upon a jury verdict, and imposing sentence.
ORDERED that the judgment is affirmed.
Viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the prosecution (see People v. Contes, 60 N.Y.2d 620, 467 N.Y.S.2d 349, 454 N.E.2d 932), we find that it was legally sufficient to establish the defendant's guilt of assault in the first degree beyond a reasonable doubt. Moreover, upon the exercise of our factual review power, we are satisfied that the verdict of guilt was not against the weight of the evidence (see CPL 470.15[5] ).
The defendant's contention that the trial court improperly admitted into evidence prior bad acts committed by her against the victim is without merit. The evidence of the prior bad acts was relevant to the defendant's motive and intent, and the probative value of this evidence outweighed its potential for prejudice. Thus, it was admissible (see People v. Molineux, 168 N.Y. 264, 61 N.E. 286; People v. Alvino, 71 N.Y.2d 233, 241, 525 N.Y.S.2d 7, 519 N.E.2d 808).
The sentence imposed was not excessive (see People v. Suitte, 90 A.D.2d 80, 455 N.Y.S.2d 675).
The defendant's remaining contention is without merit.
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Decided: November 01, 2004
Court: Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Second Department, New York.
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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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