Daniel Penny is a former U.S. Marine who gained widespread attention in May 2023 after being involved in the death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man, on a New York City subway.
The incident occurred when Penny placed Neely in a chokehold during a confrontation, allegedly after Neely was acting erratically and shouting at passengers but did not physically assault anyone. The chokehold led to Neely’s death, which was later ruled a homicide caused by compression of the neck.
The case sparked significant public debate and controversy, touching on issues such as self-defense, mental health, homelessness, and systemic inequalities. Supporters of Penny argued that he acted to protect himself and others, while critics saw his actions as excessive and emblematic of broader societal issues.
Penny was later charged with manslaughter, and the legal proceedings surrounding the case have been closely followed by the media and public.
