Following a not-guilty verdict in the subway chokehold death of Jordan Neely, Daniel Penny celebrated with his legal team at a Manhattan bar. The 26-year-old Marine veteran remained silent, allowing his lawyers to address the press.

At the Stone Street Tavern in Lower Manhattan, attorney Thomas Kenniff expressed his satisfaction with the acquittal, stating that while the timing wasn't in their control, the outcome was the right one. Penny was present, smiling but declining to comment.

The weeks-long trial concluded with the jury finding Penny not guilty of criminally negligent homicide. The jury had reached a deadlock on the manslaughter charge, which was subsequently dismissed by the judge. The prosecution's case centered on the argument that while Penny's initial intervention was justified, the duration of the chokehold was excessive. Witnesses, however, testified to being frightened by Neely's behavior and expressed gratitude for Penny's actions.

Defense attorney Steven Raiser emphasized two key points supporting the not-guilty verdict: the justification of Penny's actions in aiding subway passengers and the contribution of other factors to Neely's death, including drug use, pre-existing health conditions, and mental illness. The incident involved Neely, a homeless man experiencing a schizophrenic episode and under the influence of synthetic marijuana, making threats on the subway. Penny intervened, restraining Neely with a chokehold that ultimately led to his death.

Penny, described by friends as a calm and empathetic individual, has a background of community service, including aiding hurricane victims. The Long Island native was a student of architecture at the New York City College of Technology, balancing his studies with two jobs, following an honorable discharge from the Marines. He also participated in his school's orchestra and played lacrosse during his teenage years.