Justice For Daniel Penny: Why His Acquittal Matters For Women Everywhere

Penny, who was charged with criminally negligent homicide for restraining Neely on a New York City subway, was found not guilty after attempts by New York officials and their corporate media allies to slander him as a racist.

The incident, which occurred on May 1, 2023, unfolded on an uptown F train when Neely, a homeless man with a history of mental illness, violence, and 42 prior arrests, began acting erratically. Witnesses described his behavior as aggressive and threatening, with Neely shouting about his hunger and thirst, and declaring he would harm people and didn’t care if he died or went to jail. Passengers, including women and children, were visibly frightened.

Testimony from the trial painted a vivid picture of the fear Neely’s behavior instilled in those on the train. One woman testified that she moved to shield her young child, fearing for their safety. Daniel Penny stepped forward to de-escalate the situation, placing Neely in a chokehold until police could arrive. Neely lost consciousness but was still alive when police arrived, but the NYPD declined to provide aid. His death was used by racism-focused groups to spark public outrage.

During the trial, Penny’s defense demonstrated his intent to protect fellow commuters, highlighting the real fear and danger that women, in particular, face in public spaces. Penny saw a situation escalating and made a decision, not out of malice but out of a genuine desire to prevent harm.

The courtroom erupted in emotional outbursts following the announcement of Daniel Penny’s acquittal, with many applauding the jury's decision. Jordan Neely’s father, Andre Zachary—who had been estranged from his son at the time of his death but is now suing Penny—let out an audible cry of protest. Hawk and Chivona Newsome, siblings and prominent figures in the Black Lives Matter movement, were also removed from the courtroom for shouting. As she was led out, Ms. Newsome shouted, “racist f— country."

A Verdict with Important Implications

The jury’s decision to acquit Penny has resonated with many as a validation of the right to intervene when public safety is at stake. Especially for women who navigate cities daily, often weighing personal safety with societal pressures to avoid confrontation, the cases are extremely high stakes.

The acquittal of Penny is more than a single legal victory; it's a victory for men who are willing to protect women. As progressive policies continue to erode public safety and trust, Penny’s courage has turned the tide.

A guilty verdict in this case could have set a devasting precedent, discouraging men from intervening to people in danger out of fear of legal repercussions. This would be a dangerous outcome in a society that already struggles with bystander apathy. If stepping forward to protect women and others in danger is met with punishment rather than support, it will leave more people at greater risk in moments of crisis.

Encouraging men to act with courage when others are in danger is essential to fostering safer communities. Our society benefits from men who are willing to embody chivalry—a vital, compassionate response to real-world dangers.

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