The Daniel Penny Trial Has Begun: A Journey Through the Courtroom
The Start of the Trial
The Daniel Penny trial officially got underway on Monday as the court looked to select jurors to oversee the infamous 2023 train ride chokehold death of Jordan Neely. Penny is accused of taking Neely’s life during an incident on board a Lower Manhattan F train in May 2023.
Background of the Case
Neely’s death sparked mass protests in May after his death was caught on camera, and the footage quickly went viral on social media. Penny’s defense team alleges that Neely, who was known to dress as Michael Jackson and busk in the transit system, was threatening strangers, prompting Penny to step in and act in self-defense.
Jury Selection Process
Jury selection, which may not be fully completed until Friday, is based on various factors, including each individual’s familiarity with the case. The process is set to determine 12 impartial jurors who will hear the evidence and decide Penny’s fate.
Protests and Demonstrations
Outside the court at 100 Centre St., protesters led by Black Lives Matter of Greater New York co-founder Hawk Newsome picketed and demanded "justice for Jordan Neely, with some demonstrators already having passed their judgment on Penny.
Statement from Protesters
"He [Neely] was experiencing a crisis of hunger and homelessness," protester Christian Joseph said. "The facts in this trial for the jury are simple. The only person on that train in Manhattan that became violent was Daniel Penny. He initiated violence. Daniel Penny, an ex-US Marine soldier, jumped on Jordan Neely and put him in a chokehold that ended his life."
Defense Team’s Claims
One of Penny’s lawyers, Thomas Kenniff, said that they believe their client will be found innocent despite facing second-degree manslaughter and negligent charges. The lawyers called Neely’s death a tragedy but also argued that he was under the influence of a mental health crisis and drugs that made him a potential danger to subway riders.
Prosecution’s Claims
Neely family attorney Donte Mills believes that the jury will end up finding Penny culpable for his death. "This is going to be, and it is a very simple case. It’s easy for the jury to deliberate on. The fact of the case is this, someone got on the train and was screaming, and someone choked that person to death. Those things will never balance out. And there’s no justification that can make those things balance out.’
Conclusion
The trial is expected to last about six weeks, with the jury selection process ongoing. As the defense and prosecution present their cases, it remains to be seen what the outcome will be.
FAQs
Q: What is the Daniel Penny trial about?
A: The Daniel Penny trial is about the 2023 train ride chokehold death of Jordan Neely, with Penny accused of taking Neely’s life during an incident on board a Lower Manhattan F train.
Q: What is the defense’s claim?
A: The defense claims that Neely was threatening strangers and prompted Penny to step in and act in self-defense.
Q: What is the prosecution’s claim?
A: The prosecution says Penny’s actions became criminal when he refused to relinquish the chokehold.
Q: How long will the trial last?
A: The trial is expected to last about six weeks.
