A legal defense fundraiser for 24-year-old Marine veteran Daniel Penny has skyrocketed to over $1 million after he was charged with manslaughter on Friday.
Penny is accused of putting 30-year-old Jordan Neely in a fatal chokehold after witnesses saw Neely threatening passengers on a New York City subway. An online fundraiser was created by Penny’s attorneys to pay for his legal defense, and it has received nearly 25,000 donations as of Saturday afternoon.
The donations have come from anonymous donors and those who support Penny’s actions, with many of them expressing disbelief at the criminal charge. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has also spoken out in support of Penny, calling him a “Good Samaritan” and directing people to the fundraising campaign.
We must defeat the Soros-Funded DAs, stop the Left’s pro-criminal agenda, and take back the streets for law abiding citizens. We stand with Good Samaritans like Daniel Penny. Let’s show this Marine… America’s got his back.
https://t.co/uQXZuT19Mo— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantisFL) May 13, 2023
According to the New York City medical examiner, Neely’s death was ruled a homicide, and criminal proceedings have been launched to determine Penny’s intent or culpability. Neely had a long criminal history, including 40 prior arrests and several violent crimes, as well as mental health issues.
Two years ago, he was arrested for punching a 67-year-old female in the face and knocking her to the ground as she exited a subway station. He was also arrested for attempting to kidnap a 7-year-old girl, seen dragging her down a street.
Penny’s case has become a lightning rod for those who are opposed to prosecutors who are believed to be too lenient on criminals. Supporters of Penny have argued that his actions were a necessary response to the threat posed by Neely.
The case has also highlighted the complexity of criminal proceedings in cases involving self-defense. While Penny’s supporters believe he acted in a reasonable manner, the Manhattan District Attorney’s office has charged him with manslaughter. The court will ultimately decide whether Penny is guilty or innocent.
