Jury finds Daniel Penny not guilty in NYC subway chokehold case

A Manhattan jury has found Daniel Penny not guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely, concluding a contentious trial that highlighted debates around homelessness, mental health, and public safety in New York City. The verdict was announced Monday, with cheers and protests erupting both inside and outside the courtroom.

Penny, a former Marine, had placed Neely in a chokehold during a May 2023 subway altercation. Witnesses testified that Neely, who had schizophrenia, was shouting threats before Penny restrained him for approximately six minutes. Neely was later pronounced dead.

Prosecutors argued that Penny’s actions were excessive and caused Neely’s death, while Penny’s defense maintained he acted to protect himself and others, asserting that his actions may not have been the direct cause of Neely’s death.

The trial began in late October and originally included a manslaughter charge, which was dismissed last week after jurors could not reach a consensus. The jury deliberated on the remaining charge for nearly a week before acquitting Penny.

The case drew nationwide attention, sparking polarized reactions, protests, and significant fundraising for Penny’s defense. Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg stated he respected the jury’s decision, condemning threats made against prosecutors during the trial.

Source: Gothamist