Additional Coverage:
- Daniel Penny returns to court for start of closing arguments in subway chokehold trial (foxnews.com)
Daniel Penny’s Subway Chokehold Trial Concludes
Closing arguments began in the trial of Daniel Penny, accused of killing Jordan Neely in a subway altercation. Penny’s defense argued that his use of force was justified to protect passengers from Neely, who was mentally ill and under the influence of drugs.
The prosecution, led by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, alleged that Penny used excessive force and that his actions caused Neely’s death. They highlighted racial undertones in the case, despite no hate crime charges being filed.
Witnesses testified about Neely’s threatening behavior on the subway, including death threats and violent actions. Several women expressed fear and gratitude towards Penny for restraining Neely.
The defense presented a forensic pathologist who testified that the chokehold did not directly cause Neely’s death. Penny’s attorney argued that a “broken system” contributed to the incident, highlighting the delay in police response.
The jury will now deliberate to determine Penny’s guilt or innocence. He faces up to 15 years in prison for manslaughter and a lesser charge of criminally negligent homicide.