New York

California v. Hodari D. in New York Law

How California v. Hodari D. applies in New York: state-specific rules, key cases, and bar exam notes for Criminal Procedure.

State Approach

New York courts adhere to the principle established in California v. Hodari D. regarding seizure and the concept of 'show of authority'. Specifically, New York law recognizes that an individual is not considered seized unless they submit to authority or are physically restrained.

State Rule
In New York, the rule follows that mere pursuit by the police does not constitute a seizure unless the subject submits to police authority.
Significant State Cases

People v. De Bour

Established the varying degrees of police encounters and emphasized the need for reasonable suspicion for an investigatory stop.

People v. Castro

Held that a police officer's pursuit is not a seizure, but rather an attempt to engage, maintaining the Hodari D. distinction.

People v. McKay

Clarified that flight in response to police pursuit does not automatically indicate criminal behavior absent other factors.

Comparison to Federal Law

New York aligns with the federal standard established in Hodari D. where a suspect is not deemed seized unless there is physical restraint or submission. However, New York may impose stricter scrutiny in assessing reasonable suspicion, particularly in contexts involving police encounters.

Bar Exam Note

Understanding the application of Hodari D. is crucial for the New York bar exam, particularly in questions concerning the nuances of police encounters and Fourth Amendment protections.

Practice Pointers
  • Always assess whether the police action constitutes a seizure under both federal and New York law.
  • Consider the specifics of the circumstances surrounding police pursuit and the suspect's behavior.
  • Evaluate the totality of the circumstances when determining reasonable suspicion in New York.

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