Daniel Penny Trial Enters Third Day of Deliberations
Jurors Review Critical Evidence and Expert Testimony
Deliberations in the Daniel Penny trial entered its third day on Thursday, with jurors still weighing and reviewing critical evidence. Penny, a Marine veteran, is accused of using a chokehold that led to the death of homeless subway performer Jordan Neely on May 1.
Rewatch of Video Footage and Expert Testimony
On Wednesday, the anonymous jury requested to rewatch videos taken on the day of the incident, including footage recorded by a Mexican journalist who witnessed the event unfold and body camera footage of officers responding to the scene. They also re-examined Penny’s questioning by detectives at the station house following the deadly encounter.
Expert Testimony
The day continued with the jury asking to revisit a portion of the cross-examination of the city medical examiner, Dr. Cynthia Harris. Harris testified that Penny’s chokehold ultimately killed Neely. While toxicology results showed that Neely had drugs in his system, such as synthetic marijuana, she declared that she did not believe it contributed to his passing.
Dr. Harris’ Testimony
In her testimony, Dr. Harris stated, "No toxicology result could have changed my opinion." She added that even if "Enough fentanyl in his system to put down an elephant," Harris said that the 30-year-old homeless man showed signs of a "terminal brain injury" after he was placed in the chokehold.
Penny’s Defense
Penny’s legal team has continued to push the belief that Neely’s demise was caused by substances in his system while also painting him as an out-of-control, mentally unstable menace who was threatening the lives of passengers. They have referred to Penny as a hero for stepping in to save those aboard.
Prosecution’s Case
The prosecution, however, have argued that there was no evidence that Neely was going to harm anyone on that subway ride and that Penny acted negligently, ultimately killing Neely and holding onto the chokehold for too long.
Conclusion
The deliberations ended around 5 p.m. on Wednesday and resumed on Thursday morning. amNewYork will provide updates on the trial when a verdict is reached.
FAQs
Q: What is the Daniel Penny trial about?
A: The trial is about Daniel Penny, a Marine veteran, who is accused of using a chokehold that led to the death of homeless subway performer Jordan Neely on May 1.
Q: What is the evidence being reviewed by the jury?
A: The jury is reviewing video footage, expert testimony, and other critical evidence in the case.
Q: What is the prosecution’s case?
A: The prosecution is arguing that Penny acted negligently, ultimately killing Neely and holding onto the chokehold for too long.
Q: What is the defense’s case?
A: The defense is arguing that Neely’s demise was caused by substances in his system and that Penny acted heroically to save the lives of passengers.
