New York Court of Appeals
The People v. Nathaniel Boone , the People v. Albert Cotto
February 22, 2024
Summary
The court held that SORA's 30-day deadline for a risk-level classification hearing is measured from an offender's release from DOCCS custody upon completion of a prison sentence, even when SOMTA proceedings may result in continued civil confinement. It further held that conducting the SORA hearing at that time does not violate due process because SORA provides meaningful procedural safeguards, the risk of erroneous classification is minimal, and the state has a strong interest in timely classifications. The court affirmed both Appellate Division orders.