MATTER OF TURNER v. NEWTON

Petitioner, a prison inmate, was found guilty of drug possession after tampered pill capsules were discovered in his cell. Upon administering a NIK test, a white powder in one of the capsules tested positive for cocaine. In our view, the misbehavior report, combined with the testimony adduced at the hearing, constitute substantial evidence supporting the charge of drug possession (see, Matter of Minton v. Goord, 263 A.D.2d 811;Matter of Lagano v. Goord, 263 A.D.2d 756). Contrary to petitioner's contention, the fact that the Hearing Officer chose to credit the testimony of the pharmacist and two correction officers does not indicate bias. Any conflicting evidence created a credibility issue properly resolved by the Hearing Officer (see,Matter of Youngblood v. Goord, ___ A.D.2d ___, 699 N.Y.S.2d 760).

We also reject petitioner's contention that he was improperly denied a copy of the hearing transcript prior to filing his administrative appeal. Respondents are not required to serve a copy of the transcript until petitioner has commenced a CPLR article 78 proceeding (see, Matter of Rivera v. Smith, 137 A.D.2d 281). We have examined petitioner's remaining contentions, including his claim that he was denied his right to call witnesses, and find them to be without merit.

Mercure, J.P., Spain, Carpinello, Mugglin and Rose, JJ., concur.

ADJUDGED that the determination is confirmed, without costs, and petition dismissed.