A New York jury acquitted Marine veteran Daniel Penny of criminally negligent homicide in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely, a Black unhoused man, on a subway train.

The incident, which involved Penny restraining Neely until police arrived, sparked protests and drew national attention.

The judge had earlier dismissed a manslaughter charge due to jury deadlock.

Neely’s father criticized the verdict, calling the system “rigged,” Axios has reported.

Penny’s attorneys expressed relief, while Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg respected the jury’s decision, acknowledging the challenges faced by prosecutors during the trial.

Written by B.C. Begley