New York City Mayor Eric Adams has come to the defense of Marine veteran Daniel Penny, who is facing charges in the death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man with a history of criminal behavior. Neely, 30, died in May 2023 after an altercation on a subway train where he was subdued and choked out by Penny.
Penny, 26, is facing a manslaughter charge that could lead to up to 15 years in prison if convicted, along with a charge of criminally negligent homicide. The incident occurred when Neely began making death threats on the subway, prompting Penny to intervene and restrain him with the help of another passenger.
During the trial, Mayor Adams expressed support for Penny's actions, stating that he was responding appropriately to a potentially dangerous situation. Adams also criticized the city's mental health system, highlighting the failures in providing adequate support for individuals in need.
The defense argued that Penny acted in self-defense and only used force to restrain Neely when necessary. However, the prosecution contended that Penny viewed Neely as a threat that needed to be eliminated.
The City Medical Examiner's Office ruled Neely's death as a homicide by asphyxiation due to the chokehold used during the altercation. Neely had a history of criminal behavior, including attacks on subway riders and other violent incidents.
Adams also criticized the media's portrayal of Neely, suggesting that the use of certain photos painted an inaccurate picture of the situation. He emphasized the need for a fair representation of the events that transpired.
The case has sparked debates about self-defense, mental health support, and the use of force in public spaces. As the trial continues, the outcome will have significant implications for how similar incidents are handled in the future.
