New York Court of Appeals
The People of the State of New York v. Arthur George Eckert
November 29, 19562 N.Y.2d 126
Summary
The Court affirmed the Appellate Division’s order sustaining the indictment for criminal negligence in the operation of a vehicle resulting in death. It held that the grand‑jury testimony, even if improperly presented, did not require dismissal and that the circumstantial evidence was sufficient to support the charge under §1053‑a. The Court also clarified the meaning of “reckless or culpably negligent” as conduct done with knowledge of danger and disregard for others. Justice Desmond dissented, arguing that the indictment fails to allege a crime under New York law.