The tragic death of Jordan Neely, caused by ex-Marine Daniel Penny’s chokehold on the New York City subway, sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice. Neely, a homeless Black man struggling with mental health issues, was performing as a Michael Jackson impersonator before his life was taken. Penny applied the chokehold for so long that Neely went limp in front of a subway car filled with witnesses. This tragic incident prompted swift public outcry.
Despite the strong demands for justice, Penny was acquitted on all charges, including negligent homicide and manslaughter. Following the verdict, Penny celebrated at a local tavern with his legal team, expressing relief over the outcome. The case has left many devastated, especially Neely’s surviving family, who continue to seek accountability.
Jordan Neely’s death is a painful reminder of systemic issues surrounding mental health, homelessness, and the treatment of Black lives in America. The failure to convict Daniel Penny has only amplified the sense of injustice, leading to frustrations over the criminal justice system’s handling of cases like this.