Man Charged in Death of Jordan Neely Has Been Acquitted

Daniel Penny, a former Marine, has been acquitted of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely on a New York City subway in 2023, sparking controversy and conflicting reactions.

At a Glance

Daniel Penny was found not guilty to negligent homicide in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely.
The jury deliberated for nearly a week before reaching the verdict.
The case highlighted issues of public safety, race. and mental health care in NYC.
Reactions to the verdict were mixed, with both support and criticism.

Verdict Reached After Extensive Deliberation

After nearly a week of deliberations totaling over 20 hours, a New York City jury acquitted Daniel Penny, a former Marine, of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely. The incident, which occurred on a subway in May 2023, had initially led to charges of second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide against Penny. The manslaughter charge was dismissed after jurors failed to reach a unanimous decision.

The case gained significant attention due to its complex nature, involving issues of public safety, mental health, and the limits of civilian intervention. Penny’s defense team argued that he “acted to save” fellow passengers from Neely, who they described as “violent and desperate.” The city’s medical examiner concluded that the chokehold applied by Penny was the cause of Neely’s death.

BREAKING: Daniel Penny has been found not guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely on a New York City subway car in 2023. https://t.co/aipV95aNsI

— CBS News (@CBSNews) December 9, 2024

Conflicting Reactions to the Verdict

The courtroom reaction to the verdict was divided, with some expressing anger and others showing support for Penny. Outside the courthouse, protesters demanded justice for Jordan Neely, raising concerns about the impact of these demonstrations on the jury’s decision-making process.

“We couldn’t be more pleased that a jury of Danny’s peers acquitted him of any wrongdoing. And now New Yorkers can take some comfort in knowing that we can continue to stand up for one another without sacrificing our rights or our freedoms,” Penny’s lawyers said.

In contrast, Neely’s father, Andre Zachery, criticized the verdict, expressing his pain and frustration with the justice system. His emotional response highlighted the personal toll of the case on Neely’s family and supporters.

Broader Implications for New York City

The case has drawn attention to larger issues facing New York City, including mental health care, race, public safety, and the role of civilian intervention in crisis situations. Neely, who was a street performer and Michael Jackson impersonator, was experiencing homelessness and mental health issues at the time of his death. This aspect of the case has prompted discussions about the city’s approach to supporting vulnerable populations.

Mayor Eric Adams commented on the verdict, emphasizing the jury’s role in the justice system and the ongoing need for New Yorkers to help those in need. The case has also led to debates about civilian vigilantism and systemic racial injustice, with public figures like Rev. Al Sharpton and activist Chivona Newsome weighing in on its broader societal implications.