Following the not-guilty verdict in the case of Marine veteran Daniel Penny, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has faced intense criticism from conservative commentators and news outlets. Penny was charged with manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man, on a New York City subway car. The incident occurred in May 2023 when Neely, reportedly under the influence of K2 and exhibiting threatening behavior, was restrained by Penny in a chokehold.
Many view Bragg's decision to prosecute Penny as a politically motivated move, catering to a "hard-left, race-obsessed base." Critics point to the prosecution's emphasis on race during the trial, despite witness testimonies confirming the fear Neely's actions instilled in the subway car's occupants. Several voices have called for Bragg's removal from office, citing his perceived prioritization of politically charged cases over addressing rising crime rates in the city.
The Free Press, an independent news outlet, characterized the prosecution as "cynical, wrongheaded, and unwarranted," asserting that Bragg's policies have contributed to a less safe environment in New York. Commentators like Gregg Jarrett have expressed concern that the case could deter individuals from intervening in similar situations for fear of legal repercussions. Senator Ted Cruz echoed this sentiment, calling Bragg a "catastrophe" and suggesting Penny pursue legal action against him for malicious prosecution.
The Wall Street Journal's editorial board also condemned the prosecution, arguing that Bragg's focus on Penny, while often neglecting to prosecute other criminals, represents a miscarriage of justice. The acquittal is widely seen as a significant rebuke of Bragg's approach to law enforcement.
