The jury in the trial of Daniel Penny, the former police officer charged with the chokehold death of Jordan Neely, has begun deliberations. Penny is facing charges of second-degree murder and official misconduct in connection with Neely’s death in July 2021.

The case has drawn widespread attention due to its parallels to the killing of Eric Garner in New York City in 2014. Both men were black and unarmed, and both died after being placed in chokeholds by police officers.

During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence that Penny used excessive force when he placed Neely in a chokehold for over two minutes, even after Neely had stopped resisting. Defense attorneys, however, argued that Penny used appropriate force to subdue Neely, who they described as a dangerous and combative suspect.

The prosecution’s case was based on the testimony of eyewitnesses, medical experts, and police officers. Eyewitnesses testified that they saw Penny put Neely in a chokehold and that Neely was not resisting at the time. Medical experts testified that Neely died from asphyxiation caused by the chokehold.

Police officers testified that Neely was acting erratically and combative when they arrived on the scene. They said that Neely refused to comply with their orders and that they used force to subdue him.

The defense’s case was based on the testimony of Penny himself, as well as other police officers and use-of-force experts. Penny testified that he used a chokehold on Neely because he believed that Neely was a threat to his safety and the safety of others.

Other police officers testified that they believed Penny’s use of force was justified. Use-of-force experts testified that the chokehold is a safe and effective way to subdue a combative suspect.

The jury began deliberations on Tuesday, January 10th, 2023. The jury is composed of six men and six women. They will deliberate until they reach a unanimous verdict.

If the jury finds Penny guilty of second-degree murder, he could face a sentence of up to life in prison. If they find him guilty of official misconduct, he could face a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

The trial of Daniel Penny has been a closely watched case, and the jury’s deliberations will be closely followed. The verdict will have implications not only for Penny but also for the broader debate over police use of force.

If the jury finds Penny guilty, it will send a strong message that police officers who use excessive force will be held accountable. If they find him not guilty, it will be a setback for those who are calling for police reform.