Daniel Penny faces manslaughter charges for the choking death of Jordan Neely in a subway altercation.
The trial of Daniel Penny, a former Marine from Long Island, is nearing its conclusion as lawyers prepare to deliver their final arguments to the jury. Mr. Penny is facing charges of manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide for putting Jordan Neely in a fatal chokehold on a subway train last year.
Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man with a history of mental health struggles, exhibited erratic behavior on a subway train, prompting Mr. Penny to intervene out of concern for other passengers. Witnesses reported that Mr. Neely was yelling, throwing his jacket, and making distressing statements about his well-being.
Defense attorneys for Mr. Penny have argued that he acted to protect others from potential harm caused by Mr. Neely’s behavior. However, prosecutors from the Manhattan district attorney’s office have emphasized that the use of deadly force, such as a chokehold, is only justified when absolutely necessary and for the shortest duration possible.
As the trial enters its final phase, the jury will soon deliberate and determine Mr. Penny’s fate based on the evidence presented during the proceedings. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for both the defendant and the victim’s family, as justice is sought for the tragic incident that unfolded on the subway train.
Source: The NY Times
