The Acquittal of Daniel Penny: A Political Football in Florida
A Not Guilty Verdict in the Chokehold Death of Jordan Neely
The ink on the verdict sheet was barely dry when Gov. Ron DeSantis and his fellow Florida Men tried to make political statements out of the acquittal of Daniel Penny — the New York City subway vigilante who placed a Black homeless man in a fatal chokehold last year. On Monday, a Manhattan jury found Penny not guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely.
The Case Against Penny
Penny, a 35-year-old former Marine, had been accused of using excessive force when he grabbed Neely, 38, in a chokehold on a subway platform in Brooklyn in October 2021. Neely, who was experiencing homelessness at the time, died several days later from injuries sustained during the altercation.
Florida’s Political Response
Despite the acquittal, DeSantis and other Florida politicians were quick to weigh in on the case, with some using it as an opportunity to make political statements about law and order. DeSantis, who has been criticized for his handling of racial issues in Florida, tweeted that the verdict was a “victory for justice” and that it showed that “the system works.”
Outrage and Concern
However, many others were outraged by the verdict, citing concerns about systemic racism and the lack of accountability for police and vigilante violence. The acquittal has sparked widespread protests and calls for justice, with many demanding that Penny be held accountable for his actions.
Conclusion
The acquittal of Daniel Penny is a complex and controversial issue that has sparked heated debate and outrage. While some see it as a victory for justice, others view it as a miscarriage of justice and a reflection of systemic racism. As the country continues to grapple with issues of race and justice, the case of Daniel Penny serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability and reform.
FAQs
Q: What was Daniel Penny charged with?
A: Penny was charged with criminally negligent homicide in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely.
Q: What was the verdict in the case?
A: A Manhattan jury found Penny not guilty of criminally negligent homicide.
Q: What did Gov. Ron DeSantis say about the verdict?
A: DeSantis tweeted that the verdict was a “victory for justice” and that it showed that “the system works.”
Q: How did others respond to the verdict?
A: Many others were outraged by the verdict, citing concerns about systemic racism and the lack of accountability for police and vigilante violence.
