A trial date has been set for Marine veteran Daniel Penny, who faces manslaughter charges stemming from the chokehold death of a man on a New York City subway train last year. Judge Maxwell Wiley ruled this morning that Penny will stand trial on October 8th, 2024.
Penny’s defense team had previously petitioned for the case to be dismissed, arguing that he acted in self-defense after the victim, Jordan Neely, allegedly threatened passengers. Prosecutors, however, maintain that Penny used excessive force and is responsible for Neely’s death.
The trial is expected to be a lengthy one, lasting several weeks. It will likely delve into the events that transpired on the subway train in May 2023, exploring witness testimonies, video evidence, and the specific actions taken by both Penny and Neely.
Daniel Penny, a 24-year-old former Marine, was arrested following a fatal incident on a Manhattan subway train. According to witness accounts, Neely, a homeless man and former Michael Jackson impersonator, was acting erratically and shouting at passengers. Penny intervened, attempting to subdue Neely, and ultimately placed him in a chokehold. Neely tragically lost consciousness and later died.
The case has sparked heated debate regarding self-defense, appropriate use of force, and the treatment of individuals experiencing mental health crises. The upcoming trial is expected to draw significant public interest and will likely be closely watched by legal observers and the New York City community.
