PEOPLE v. ROACHE

Defendant clearly opened the door to evidence concerning an incident in which defendant and the deceased were arrested together (see People v. Melendez, 55 N.Y.2d 445). In any event, this evidence was closely linked to the murder, particularly with regard to motive, and was not collateral.

We perceive no basis for reducing the sentence.

We have considered and rejected defendant's remaining claims, including those contained in his pro se supplemental brief.

THIS CONSTITUTES THE DECISION AND ORDER OF THE SUPREME COURT, APPELLATE DIVISION, FIRST DEPARTMENT.