New York City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino is calling for a federal investigation into the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office following the acquittal of Marine veteran Daniel Penny. This comes as Paladino alleges that the charges brought against Penny by District Attorney Alvin Bragg were fueled by political motives.
Paladino stated, “It’s clear that the Manhattan D.A. has made this case about race. We’ve seen the approach taken by A.G. Bragg, and with the acquittal of Penny, it’s evident that there’s a vendetta at play. This has been highly politicized, and I believe that both Bragg and his entire office need to be investigated.” She expressed these concerns during an interview on Tuesday.
As a Republican, Paladino has been a strong advocate for Penny, who was charged with second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide in the death of 30-year-old Jordan Neely. The incident occurred on a New York City subway when Penny put Neely in a chokehold after Neely was reportedly threatening other passengers. The prosecution’s request to drop the manslaughter charge came after jurors could not reach a unanimous decision on two separate occasions.
Penny was ultimately acquitted of the lesser charge on Monday, sparking outrage from activists who vowed to protest the verdict. Paladino commented on the jurors’ decision, suggesting that they felt pressure to convict regardless of the evidence.
In response to the verdict, Bragg stated that the office respects the jury’s decision but denounced the threats and hostility faced by the prosecutors involved in the case. Bragg emphasized their commitment to public service and thanked the NYPD for their efforts.
Also speaking out against Bragg’s handling of the case was Maud Maron, a Republican attorney running for Bragg’s position. Maron criticized him for his initial approach to prosecutions, which included not pursuing certain crimes, and stated that the Penny case would define his legacy. She remarked that Penny, who has no prior criminal record and served his country, acted bravely in trying to protect fellow subway riders.
The unfolding events surrounding Daniel Penny’s trial highlight significant tensions in New York City regarding crime, politics, and the justice system, and raise questions about how these factors influence legal proceedings.
