The trial against former Marine Daniel Penny, accused of manslaughter for killing an African American in the New York subway in May 2023, began with the jury selection process in Manhattan Supreme Court. Over a hundred potential jurors were summoned, and most stated they were familiar with the case.
Judge Maxwell Wiley warned potential jurors that being familiar with the case would not exempt them from participating in the judicial process expected to last six weeks. He cited more than 60 people who could testify, including passengers present during the fatal incident that resulted in the death of homeless young man Jordan Neely, a Michael Jackson impersonator with mental issues.
The case has become a symbol of the fight against systemic racism in American society, particularly towards the African American population. The confrontation in the subway began when Neely, visibly in need of food and water, expressed his desire to die. A crucial video for the trial shows Penny with his arms around Neely's neck, resulting in the young man's death.
The autopsy report determined that Neely's death was a homicide caused by pressure on his neck. Nevertheless, Penny's defense argues that he did not apply enough force to cause a fatal outcome. In contrast, Neely's family attorney, Donte Mills, is convinced that justice will be served when Penny is convicted.
Jury selection will continue, and the judge anticipates that the process will be extensive. Outside the court, protests were held in support of Neely, demanding justice and labeling Penny a murderer. Among the protesters is Omowale Clay from the December 12th Movement, who stated, "And the answer to that is murder". The presence of protesters and public interest indicates the relevance of this trial in the pursuit of justice.
