This week a grand jury indicted Daniel Penny in connection with the tragic chokehold death of Jordan Neely, a former Michael Jackson impersonator who was homeless and suffering from mental illness.
This step in the legal process allows the manslaughter case against Penny to proceed. And should shed some light on the complex circumstances surrounding the incident.
The indictment, which was confirmed by New York City Mayor Eric Adams, signifies the culmination of an investigation by Manhattan prosecutors.
The Grand Jury proceedings will remain sealed, leaving the specific details undisclosed.
Chokehold death
On the day of the incident, Neely, visibly agitated and distressed, resorted to shouting at and confronting passengers as he begged for money in a New York City subway car.
Faced with a potentially dangerous situation, Penny, a former U.S. Marine, along with two other riders, restrained Neely, pinning him to the floor. Penny then employed a chokehold that lasted for over three minutes, resulting in Neely’s untimely demise.
