On Wednesday, Daniel Penny was formally charged in the case of Jordan Neely’s death by chokehold on the subway. He faced charges of criminally negligent homicide and second-degree manslaughter.

During the arraignment at the State Supreme Court in Lower Manhattan, Penny pleaded not guilty to the charges, CBS News reported.

As public outcry for Penny to be held accountable grew, there were also those who came to his defense. In fact, a substantial amount of $3 million was raised to cover his legal expenses.

Lennon Edwards, the attorney representing the Neely family, acknowledged the significant support for Penny’s defense but emphasized that justice cannot be swayed by financial resources or interviews that occurred prior to the tragic incident.

Edwards reminded everyone that they were all witnesses to the case.

Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old subway performer who had experienced homelessness and battled mental illness, tragically lost his life.

According to Penny’s account given to investigators, he claimed that Neely had been menacing passengers and displaying erratic behavior on the train.

Penny’s legal team argues that he acted in self-defense and never had any intention of causing Neely’s death.

Written by staff