Daniel Penny was acquitted of criminally negligent homicide in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man with mental illness, captured on video on a New York City subway. After the jury deadlocked on manslaughter, Penny faces up to four years in prison. The judge reorganized the deliberation order. Neely had been acting erratically and was placed in a chokehold by Penny that lasted nearly six minutes. Neely died from compression to his neck. Penny’s attorneys argued that he intervened to protect other passengers and intended only to restrain Neely. The case divided opinion along political and racial lines, with some supporting Penny’s actions and others condemning them as criminal. The case also raised discussions on safety in the subway, mental illness, and homelessness issues. The assistant prosecutor argued that Penny was reckless and continued to choke Neely even after he posed no threat. The jury asked to rewatch videos and rehear testimony during deliberations. Penny chose not to testify during the trial. Neely’s father filed a civil suit against Penny for negligent actions. The case sparked national attention and discussions about race, policing, mental health, and public safety.
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