In a significant turn of events, a New York judge has dismissed the second-degree manslaughter charge against Daniel Penny, a former Marine, who has been accused of choking Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, to death in a subway incident that rocked the city in May 2023.

After prolonged deliberations, it was revealed that the jury of 12 was unable to reach a unanimous decision regarding the manslaughter count, alerting the judge through multiple notes indicating their deadlock. The judge, Maxwell Wiley, emphasized the complexity of the case, stating, “That’s a long time, but given the factual complexity of the case, I don’t think it’s too long,” before instructing jurors to continue discussing the evidence.

Though the manslaughter charge has been dismissed, the jury still has to consider a lesser charge of criminally negligent homicide. This charge carries a maximum prison sentence of four years, significantly lower than the 15-year maximum for manslaughter.

Penny's legal team argues that his actions were a response to a perceived threat, claiming he attempted to protect commuters after Neely exhibited erratic behavior, including asking for money and shouting that he was hungry and wanted to go back to jail. Eyewitness testimony and bystander videos presented during the month-long trial played a crucial role in the proceedings, some jurors reportedly found the evidence quite compelling.

The tragic death of Neely, a well-known Michael Jackson impersonator in Times Square, has sparked outrage throughout New York City, leading to protests and renewed discussions about the treatment of homeless individuals and mental health crisis intervention. His family, devastated by the incident, has filed a civil lawsuit against Penny, seeking accountability for Neely's death that resonates deeply with a growing movement advocating for social justice.

As the trial progresses, it raises important questions about the complexities of self-defense laws, the rights of individuals in public spaces, and the systemic issues surrounding homelessness and mental health. The jury is set to return next week to continue deliberations on the remaining charge, a moment which could have far-reaching implications for Penny and the New York community's ongoing dialogue about safety, responsibility, and compassion in urban environments.

Stay tuned as this story develops, revealing how one unfortunate incident ignites a multifaceted conversation about life in one of the world's busiest cities.