NEW YORK — A pivotal trial is set to begin for Daniel Penny, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran charged with manslaughter following the death of Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old man who died after being placed in a chokehold. The incident occurred on May 1, 2023, on a Manhattan subway, and has ignited heated discussions surrounding issues of racial injustice and public safety.
Jury selection for Penny’s trial commences Monday, with proceedings projected to last about six weeks. The case has attracted significant attention as it highlights critical concerns about the treatment of individuals facing mental health issues within the transit system, where many commuters continue to express feelings of vulnerability despite declining crime rates.
Neely, who struggled with homelessness and mental illness, was reportedly acting erratically on the subway when Penny intervened. Witnesses testified that Penny, with assistance from two other passengers, subdued Neely for over three minutes. The medical examiner later categorized Neely’s death as a homicide due to neck compression.
The highly-publicized case sparked nearly two weeks of protests, leading to an indictment by the Manhattan District Attorney. Meanwhile, considerable funds have been raised to cover Penny’s legal expenses, reflecting a divide in public opinion regarding the incident.
Facing a potential sentence of up to 15 years if convicted of second-degree manslaughter, Penny has been out on a $100,000 bond. His defense argues that his intentions were not to kill but to ensure the safety of others, stating that he was trying to restrain Neely until police arrived.
The trial promises to address competing narratives surrounding the case. Supporters of Neely emphasize his struggles and the systemic failures that contributed to his death. They have voiced concerns that justice must be served, particularly in relation to the broader issues of racial equality and mental health support.
As the community prepares for the trial, voices from Neely’s family echo a desire for justice and recognition of his humanity. They stress the importance of understanding mental health issues compassionately rather than responding with aggression.
