NEW YORK, NY – A jury has found Daniel Penny not guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely, following a tense confrontation on a New York City subway train last May. The case, which has drawn considerable attention due to its complex interplay of self-defense and public safety, concluded with a verdict that has sparked mixed reactions both within and outside the courtroom.
The incident unfolded when Penny, a former Marine, was accused of causing Neely’s death during an altercation on the subway. Prosecutors acknowledged that Neely, who struggled with mental health issues, was yelling and making threats. They argued, however, that Penny’s actions were excessive, as he continued to restrain Neely for nearly a minute after he had stopped moving.
The defense contended that Penny acted to protect himself and other passengers, particularly when Neely approached a bench occupied by women. This argument seemed to resonate with the jurors, who ultimately decided in Penny’s favor. The decision appeared to reflect a broader sentiment that passengers would want someone like Penny to intervene if faced with a similar situation.
Emotions ran high in the courtroom upon the announcement of the verdict. Some attendees expressed relief, while others, including Neely’s father, reacted with anger and disappointment. The courtroom echoed with a mix of cheers and cries, underscoring the case’s divisive nature.
Despite the verdict, the legal battle is far from over. Neely’s family has already initiated a civil lawsuit against Penny, accusing him of negligence, assault, and battery. The family’s attorney vowed to continue seeking justice, expressing dissatisfaction with the jury’s decision and asserting that the pursuit of accountability would persist in civil court.
The judge had previously dismissed the most severe charge against Penny, second-degree manslaughter, after jurors were unable to reach a unanimous decision. This dismissal, coupled with the not-guilty verdict, means that Penny, who faced up to 15 years in prison, is now free.
The district attorney’s office expressed disappointment with the jury’s decision, but acknowledged the complexity of the case. As the community grapples with the outcome, discussions continue about the responsibilities of individuals in public spaces and the challenges of addressing mental health issues.