Jordan Neely
Jordan Neely, a homeless man experiencing a mental health crisis on a subway, was placed in a fatal chokehold by Daniel Penny. The case sparked debate about mental health, homelessness, and self-defense.
On May 1, 2023, Jordan Neely, 30, a homeless man known for his Michael Jackson impersonations, boarded an F train in Manhattan and began yelling that he was hungry and tired and didn't care if he went to prison. Witnesses said he threw his jacket on the floor.
Daniel Penny, 24, a Marine veteran, placed Neely in a chokehold from behind. Other passengers helped restrain Neely. Penny held the chokehold for approximately six minutes. Neely was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Penny was charged with second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide. The case became highly politicized, with some calling Penny a hero and others calling it unjustified killing.
In December 2024, Penny was acquitted of all charges by a jury that found he acted reasonably given the circumstances. The verdict further polarized public opinion.
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