Trial of Daniel Penny: Part 1

The trial of Daniel Penny, a former Marine, has garnered significant attention due to the circumstances surrounding the death of Jordan Neely on a New York City subway in 2023. Penny is facing charges of second-degree manslaughter and negligent homicide for allegedly fatally choking Neely, a well-known Michael Jackson impersonator who was reportedly threatening passengers on the subway.

Key Developments in the Trial

1. Martial Arts Instructor's Testimony: Joseph Cavaller, a former Marine sergeant who trained Penny, testified about the different types of chokeholds. He explained that a "blood choke" applies pressure to the carotid artery to knock someone out, while an "air choke" puts pressure on the Adam's apple. Cavaller noted that in training, a blood choke is never held for more than five seconds.

2. Incident Details: On the day of the incident, Neely was reportedly making aggressive comments and threatening passengers. Penny approached Neely from behind and placed him in a chokehold. Neely was later pronounced dead at a hospital, with his death ruled a homicide by compression of the neck.

3. Witness Testimonies: Witnesses have provided varying accounts of the incident. Some described Neely's behavior as threatening, while others noted that he did not physically attack anyone. Eric Gonzalez, a Bronx man who helped Penny restrain Neely, testified that he tried to assist Penny in releasing the chokehold by holding Neely's hands.

4. Defense and Prosecution Arguments: The defense argues that Penny acted to protect himself and other passengers, using a headlock to restrain Neely without applying excessive force. They have questioned the medical examiner's findings, suggesting Neely's health problems and drug use could have contributed to his death. The prosecution, however, contends that Penny's military training should have made him aware of the potential lethality of the chokehold.

5. Expert Testimonies: Experts on chokeholds have testified about the techniques used and the potential dangers. They have discussed the differences between blood chokes and air chokes, and the appropriate duration for applying such holds.

Broader Implications

The trial has sparked widespread debate and divided public opinion. Some view Penny as a good Samaritan who acted to protect others, while others see him as a vigilante who overreacted. The case has also highlighted issues related to mental health, homelessness, and the use of force in self-defense situations.

As the trial continues, it remains to be seen how the jury will interpret the evidence and testimonies presented. Penny faces up to 19 years in prison if convicted.

For more detailed updates on the trial, you can follow the coverage on 

[Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/daniel-penny-trial-jordan-neely-chokehold-death-martial-arts-instructor-1986054), 

[ABC News](https://abc7ny.com/post/daniel-penny-trial-former-marine-misused-combat-technique-nyc-deadly-subway-chokehold-jordan-neely-trainer-testifies/15545913/), and 

[NewsNation](https://www.newsnationnow.com/crime/daniel-penny-chokehold-testify/).

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/05/marine-daniel-penny-kills-homeless.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/06/daniel-penny-jordan-williams-self.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2024/10/trial-begins-for-marine-daniel-penny.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/06/daniel-penny-arraigned-jordan-williams.html