Trial Details and Charges
, a 25-year-old former Marine, is on trial for manslaughter in the death of Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old former street performer, following a subway chokehold incident in May 2023. Penny faces charges of second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide, with a potential sentence of up to 19 years if convicted.
The incident occurred on May 1, 2023, when witnesses reported Neely acting erratically on a subway train. Penny, with the help of two other passengers, placed Neely in a chokehold for over three minutes. The medical examiner ruled Neely's death a homicide due to neck compression. Penny's defense argues he intended to restrain Neely, not kill him.
Public Reaction and Legal Proceedings
The case has sparked significant public debate and division, with protests demanding Penny's arrest and others rallying in his support. The trial has attracted national attention, highlighting issues of urban crime, mental health, and the criminal justice system.
Jury selection for the trial began on Monday, with the proceedings expected to last six weeks. The trial's outcome hinges on whether the jury finds Penny's use of force justified or reckless. Testimonies will include witnesses from the subway and medical professionals, with the prosecution arguing Penny's actions were negligent regardless of intent.