Daniel Penny’s acquittal in the death of Jordan Neely sparks calls for ‘black vigilantes’ from BLM leader Hawk Newsome, igniting a firestorm of controversy and debate over racial justice in America.
At a Glance
- Daniel Penny, a former Marine, was found not guilty in the death of Jordan Neely on a NYC subway
- BLM leader Hawk Newsome called for “black vigilantes” in response to the verdict
- The case has reignited discussions about racial dynamics and legal equity in the justice system
- Protests erupted outside the courthouse following the acquittal
Controversial Verdict Sparks Outrage
The acquittal of Daniel Penny, a former Marine, in the death of Jordan Neely has ignited a firestorm of controversy and debate over racial justice in America. Penny was found not guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, who died after being held in a chokehold on a New York City subway train in May 2023.
The verdict has prompted strong reactions from various quarters, including Black Lives Matter leader Hawk Newsome, who made a controversial call for “black vigilantes” in response to what he perceives as systemic injustice. Newsome further intensified the ongoing debate about racial tensions and legal accountability in American society by going on to say “Like everybody else has vigilantes, we need some black vigilantes,” expressing frustration with the verdict.
The acquittal of Daniel Penny in the death of Jordan Neely has effectively given license for vigilante justice to be waged on the Black community without consequence.
It's a painful reminder of the inequities in our justice system. Jordan deserved compassion. Instead, he was met… https://t.co/JOdxjZJXBi
— NAACP (@NAACP) December 9, 2024
The Incident and Its Aftermath
The case stemmed from an incident where Penny restrained Neely on a subway train. Witnesses described Neely’s behavior as erratic and threatening before the chokehold incident. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg initially charged Penny after Neely’s death was ruled a homicide. The manslaughter charge against Penny was later dismissed, and he faced a negligent homicide charge that carried a potential four-year sentence.
The verdict sparked immediate protests outside the courthouse, with demonstrators chanting for justice and questioning the role of law enforcement in protecting individuals like Neely. Some protesters labeled Penny the ‘subway strangler’ and warned of potential unrest if justice was not served.
BLM’s Response and Broader Implications
Newsome’s call for “black vigilantes” has raised concerns about potential escalation of tensions and the promotion of extrajudicial actions. He urged black communities to hold events and discuss their needs instead of just marching, suggesting a shift in strategy for addressing perceived injustices.
As the nation grapples with the implications of this verdict and the subsequent reactions, the call for vigilantism by a prominent BLM leader underscores the deep-seated frustrations within certain communities and the ongoing challenges in addressing racial disparities in the justice system.
Sources:
BLM Leader Calls for Retaliation After Daniel Penny Acquittal
New York Black Lives Matter leader calls for ‘black vigilantes’ following Daniel Penny verdict
