Additional Coverage:
- Daniel Penny prosecutor dangles race card again over defense objection despite no hate crime charges (foxnews.com)
Manhattan Subway Chokehold Trial Closing Arguments
In closing arguments for the subway chokehold trial, prosecutors accused Daniel Penny of failing to recognize the humanity of Jordan Neely. They claimed Penny’s dismissive language, such as calling Neely a “crackhead,” showed he didn’t see Neely as a person.
The defense argued that Penny acted in self-defense when he restrained Neely, who was high on drugs and threatening passengers. They claimed Penny used less force than he was trained to as a Marine and that he eased up when Neely stopped struggling.
The defense also presented expert testimony that Neely’s death may have been caused by his drug use and sickle cell disorder, not the chokehold. They replayed bodycam footage showing officers saying Neely was still breathing after the incident.
The prosecution, however, argued that Penny used excessive force for too long and that he could have let go when bystanders asked him to. They also claimed Penny knew Neely was likely dead but didn’t care when he spoke to police.
The jury will continue deliberations on Wednesday if they do not reach a verdict by the end of Tuesday. Penny faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted of manslaughter.