Phil Mickelson, the renowned LIV Golf star, recently voiced his thoughts on the jury’s acquittal of Daniel Penny in the high-profile case surrounding the chokehold death of Jordan Neely. His comments come in the wake of Penny’s trial, which has captured significant media attention.
Support for Penny’s Acquittal
In a post on X, Mickelson expressed his approval of the jury’s verdict, labeling it as a display of “common sense.” He commented, “Finally a little common sense. There never should have been a trial. He should be commended for selfless actions to protect the other passengers, and those who brought charges should be out of a job.” This statement reflects Mickelson’s belief that Penny acted in defense of others during a chaotic situation.
Background of the Case
Daniel Penny, a 26-year-old Marine veteran and architecture student, faced serious charges including manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide following the subway incident involving Jordan Neely. Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man suffering from schizophrenia, reportedly boarded the train while exhibiting threatening behavior and under the influence of synthetic marijuana known as K2. The altercation ultimately led to his death, igniting a heated public debate about self-defense and the responsibilities of bystanders.
Reactions from Legal Authorities
Following the verdict, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg issued a statement acknowledging the jury’s decision while also condemning the “unacceptable” behavior directed at his prosecutors throughout the trial. He noted that many talented career prosecutors and their families faced harassment and threats across social media and other platforms, emphasizing that such actions are intolerable regardless of one’s stance on the case.
Mickelson’s Continued Support
Earlier on the same day as the verdict, Mickelson reiterated his support for Daniel Penny on social media. He stated, “If a deranged individual threatens to kill you, let’s hope there’s a Daniel Penny around.” This comment underscores his view that Penny’s actions were justified in the face of perceived danger.
Conclusion
The acquittal of Daniel Penny has stirred a mix of reactions, with figures like Phil Mickelson openly supporting the jury’s decision. As discussions around self-defense laws and the responsibilities of individuals in crisis situations continue, this case remains a pivotal point of contention in public discourse.
