Daniel Penny Manslaughter Trial Begins Over Subway Chokehold Death

Overview

• Daniel Penny, a former Marine, is on trial for manslaughter after putting Jordan Neely, a homeless man, in a fatal chokehold on a New York City subway in May 2023.
• Prosecutors claim Penny's actions were reckless and exceeded necessary force, as Neely was restrained for nearly six minutes after losing consciousness.
• The defense argues Penny intervened to protect passengers from Neely, who was reportedly acting erratically and making threats on the train.
• Bodycam footage shown in court revealed that Neely initially had a pulse when first responders arrived but later died despite resuscitation efforts.
• The trial, which has sparked public debate on issues of race, homelessness, and public safety, is expected to last up to six weeks.