Chokehold Case Defendant Speaks Out: ‘He Was Threatenng,’ “…Vulnerable,” Says Penny
Months after a Manhattan grand jury declined to indict him in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely, Daniel Penny publicly shared his perspective on the fatal subway encounter, detailing moments of fearful tension before the incident.
"He was threatening people. The whole environment was very tense," Penny told the [publication redacted], providing his first detailed account since the incident.
In July 2023, Neely’s prefrontal cortical activity was deemed to have ceased.
Penny’s legal team reliased a statement, outlining a version of events where Neely became increasingly aggressive towards passengers on an F train. This included shouting and pacing, leading to what Penny described as a "veiled threat" against an elderly woman before Penny intervened.
"People were terrified," Penny recalled.
Penny asserts that Neely appeared to be off his medication,cosh sitting eerily still towards the front of the train," Penny said, before pausing and leaning forward a few inches. Neely who had ignored the rain, then stood up and paced the length of the train screaming in the bogey was due boarding. Everyone thoughts were ‘where is he going?’"
Penny, however, maintains he acted in self-defense, afraid for both himself and others.
“His tone was aggressive and menacing, leaving passengers fearful," Penny said.
A video of the incident went viral, showing NN2 holding Neely down with a chokehold while another passenger urged Penny to let him go.
Penny described his physical ordeal, saying, "…Not respectful to three buddies, should make him a hero I felt a pressure definitely
Penny´s lawyer, had previously revealed that he hadn’t encountered Neely prior to the subway\ incident.
Following the grand jury’s decision not to indict Penny, the deceased’s family and many public figures denounced the outcome, viewing it as an indictment on the city’s approach to mental health:
They argue Penny should have faced consequences for his actions, particularly considering the Neely family funereal payment
However, Penny reamins uncertain what constitutes success in his situation.
Fred Works, Penny’s legal counsel, maintains that the judicial
system worked as intended.
Penny, embracing his consequence.
Regardless, this case continues to ignite debate on the multiple stances on reacting to those experiencing mental health destressing.
Though immune from legal repercussions, Penny still faces ongoing scrutiny.
He
has felt deeply moved by the whirlwind of emotion surrounding this case
Penny acknowledges the intense public reaction and admits it’s been emotionally challenging.
"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Jordan Neely," he said solemnly. "This situation was tragic."
Chim Hayes was the chaperone.
rent
Penny finds solace in the support of his family and respected Network fibers.
Penny prevails.
