New York Criminal Evidence Discovery Rules Take Effect as Governor Hochul Signals Willingness to Revisit “Raise the Age” Reforms
ALBANY – Governor Kathy Hochul announced this week that changes to New York’s criminal evidence discovery rules are set to go into effect, aiming to prevent cases from being dismissed on technicalities. The reforms, which were passed in 2019 under then-Governor Andrew Cuomo, were criticized for hindering justice for victims. Hochul emphasized the importance of ensuring justice for victims and expressed her commitment to addressing these issues.
The district attorneys of New York City, along with Governor Hochul, advocated for these changes to the discovery rules. However, there is now a growing call to revisit the “Raise the Age” reforms, which raised the age of adult criminal responsibility from 16 to 18. Hochul, while open to discussions on the topic, is mindful of the upcoming re-election in 2026 and the need for cautious deliberation on such a contentious issue.
Raise the Age legislation, signed into law in 2017, directs cases of 16 and 17-year-old offenders to family court judges even in serious felonies like murder. The aim of the reforms was to provide resources and support to prevent youth offenders from becoming repeat offenders. However, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness and implementation of these programs.
Following a recent incident in Albany where multiple people were shot, including one fatality, during a violent episode, Mayor Kathy Sheehan and Police Chief Brendan Cox criticized the “Raise the Age” statute. They emphasized the need for swift and effective measures to address violent crimes committed by youth offenders.
Albany District Attorney Lee Kindlon has also joined the chorus of voices calling for changes to the existing legislation. As the debate on criminal justice reforms continues, Governor Hochul remains committed to ensuring justice for victims while exploring potential adjustments to the “Raise the Age” laws.
