Witnesses recount feeling unsafe during subway incident at Daniel Penny trial
In a lower Manhattan courtroom, witnesses are detailing an incident that has captured the city’s attention.
NEW YORK CITY—The trial of Marine Daniel Penny on manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide charges in relation to the death of Jordan Neely, a mentally ill homeless individual, resumed on Nov. 8. Witness after witness took the stand, testifying that Neely’s behavior on the subway caused more fear for their safety than anything they had experienced before.
The charges stem from Neely’s death after Penny allegedly put him in a headlock, leading to a struggle that resulted in tragedy.
During the recent court session, witnesses provided more specific details about Neely’s behavior and the impact it had on them.
All witnesses agreed that the incident began when Neely entered an uptown F train at the Second Avenue station, immediately causing a commotion by shouting about his hunger, homelessness, and lack of concern for returning to prison, while exhibiting aggressive movements and throwing a jacket forcefully to the ground.
On Nov. 8, witnesses elaborated on the events of that day and highlighted specific threats made by Neely.
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Some witnesses expressed gratitude towards Penny for intervening and protecting them.
During cross-examination by defense lawyer Thomas Kenniff, witnesses stated that they did not hear Neely say “I can’t breathe” during the struggle and did not perceive Penny’s hold on Neely as dangerous.
A Mother’s Concern for Her Child
Lori Sitro, a research director in the city, testified that the incident was particularly alarming as she had her young son with her at the time.
She recounted how Neely’s aggressive behavior and disturbing statements caused fear among passengers, with Neely shouting threatening phrases and displaying erratic conduct.
Sitro described feeling scared and vulnerable, especially when Neely came close to her and her son. She expressed relief when Penny intervened to protect them.
Witnessing Unprecedented Desperation
The next witness, Dan Couvreur, shared a similar account, emphasizing Neely’s escalating aggression and Penny’s intervention.
He described Neely’s behavior as beyond anything he had witnessed before in the city, prompting him to move away for his safety.
Other witnesses, like Alethea Gittings, expressed gratitude towards Penny for safeguarding passengers and intervening during the tumultuous incident.
The trial will resume on Nov. 12 with further testimonies.
