The case surrounding the death of Jordan Neely has reignited the nationwide conversation on police brutality and the use of force against unarmed citizens. On April 15, 2022, then 24-year-old Daniel Penny performed a chokehold on Neely, a mentally ill individual experiencing a well-documented history of disordered behavior and homelessness. The incident captured the attention of social media users, reviving a bleak narrative of misconduct that continues to permeate the nation’s subways and urban areas.
Neely’s tragic death unfolded onboard a New York City subway train. Daniel Penny, who is not a police officer but had experienced military training, engaged in a physical confrontation with Neely, ignoring pleas from other passengers to deescalate the situation. As the altercation intensified, Penny detected that Neely was struggling to breathe and decide to release him. By the time he let go, 30-year-old Jordan Neely was unresponsive, prompting emergency medical personnel to declare him dead at the scene.
Public outcry and an investigation into Neely’s death ensued. At trial, both the prosecution and defense teams sought to paint conflicting narratives of the events that transpired. Prosecutors contended that Penny’s use of force was unjustified and constituted manslaughter, thus seeking a guilty verdict. The defense team, Orange County District Attorney’s Office, argued that Penny had no malicious intent and acted within his understanding of self-defense.
Ultimately, though, the case came down to the concept of reasonable force. Experts called upon by the prosecution, including a former FBI agent and a police trainer, alleged that chokeholds are generally considered inhumane and lethal techniques and should not be used. Witnesses testifying on behalf of the defense, on the other hand, presented testimonies of their fear and that they genuinely perceived a threat from Neely.
The jury concluded that, based on the evidence presented and testimonies, Dan Penny’s actions were not pursued with malice, and they did not meet the legal definition of manslaughter. Penny’s defense team and family expressed relief, stating Penny had always been guided by a desire to protect and help others.
Regardless of the verdict, Jordan Neely’s death leaves a void in the lives of those who loved him and highlights the complexities and urgency surrounding the treatment of individuals struggling with mental illness in society.
