People v. Friend

OPINION OF THE COURT

Memorandum.

Judgment of conviction unanimously reversed, on the law, information dismissed and fine remitted.

While the general reliability of radar as a competent speed-measuring device, while in a stationary position, has long been recognized (People v Magri, 3 NY2d 562), the reliability of this particular type of radar to accurately measure the speed of an oncoming vehicle while the unit is mounted in a police vehicle traveling in the opposite direction has not been established. Before such readings can be considered reliable, there must be testimony detailing the operative principles underlying the capability of this type of radar unit to accurately compensate for the relative speeds and directions of the respective vehicles (People v Lampert, NYLJ, May 31, 1977, p 14, col 2).

Furthermore, under the circumstances herein, the officer’s independent estimate is not alone sufficient to sustain the conviction.

Farley, P. J., Geiler and Widlitz, JJ., concur.