Daniel Penny is a former United States Marine who gained national attention after a controversial subway altercation on May 1, 2023, in which he placed Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, in a chokehold, leading to Neely’s death. The incident sparked nationwide debates on mental health, homelessness, public safety, and self-defense laws. Penny was later charged with manslaughter, but in December 2024, he was acquitted of all charges, as the jury determined his actions were legally justified.
Since his acquittal, Penny has stepped into the corporate world, landing a job at Andreessen Horowitz, a high-profile Silicon Valley venture capital firm. This article explores Daniel Penny’s age, background, military service, legal case, career, net worth, and public reaction.
Daniel Penny Short Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Penny |
| Profession | Former U.S. Marine, Investor |
| Known For | Subway Chokehold Incident (2023) |
| Date of Birth | 1998 or 1999 (Exact date unknown) |
| Age (as of 2025) | 25–26 years old |
| Hometown | West Islip, Long Island, New York |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (approx.) |
| Military Service | United States Marine Corps (2017–2021) |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Years of Service | 4 years |
| Legal Status | Acquitted (December 2024) |
| Current Role | Investor at Andreessen Horowitz |
| Net Worth | Estimated $2-3 million (2025) |
Early Life and Military Service
Daniel Penny was born in 1998 or 1999 and raised in West Islip, Long Island, New York. While public details about his early life are limited, Penny was described as disciplined and focused, with aspirations of serving his country.
Military Career
After high school, Penny enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2017. Over a four-year service period, he achieved the rank of Sergeant and was stationed in various domestic and international locations. His service record remains largely private, but sources confirm he was honorably discharged in 2021.
After leaving the military, Penny returned to New York and was reportedly considering higher education and career paths before the subway incident thrust him into the public spotlight.
The Death of Jordan Neely
What Happened on May 1, 2023?
On May 1, 2023, Penny was on a northbound F train in Manhattan when Jordan Neely, a homeless man with a history of mental illness, entered the subway car, acting erratically. Witnesses reported Neely saying things like:**
- “I don’t care if I go to jail!”
- “I’m ready to die!”
Although Neely did not physically attack anyone, his behavior reportedly made passengers uncomfortable. Penny, along with two others, intervened to subdue him. Penny placed Neely in a chokehold for several minutes, during which bystanders recorded the incident.
Neely became unresponsive, and emergency responders were called to the scene. Shortly after, Neely was pronounced dead, with the New York City Medical Examiner ruling the cause of death as “homicide due to neck compression.”
Legal Proceedings and Acquittal
The Charges Against Penny
On May 12, 2023, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office charged Penny with second-degree manslaughter, a felony that carries up to 15 years in prison. He was released on bail pending trial.
Penny’s legal team argued self-defense, stating that he acted to protect himself and other passengers. They highlighted Neely’s extensive criminal history (over 40 arrests) and past reports of assaulting subway riders.
Prosecution’s Argument:
- Penny’s use of a chokehold was excessive and unnecessary.
- Neely was unarmed and did not physically attack anyone.
- Penny’s actions led directly to Neely’s death.
The Trial and Acquittal (December 2024)
During the trial, a key turning point came when the judge dismissed the second-degree manslaughter charge due to a deadlocked jury. This meant Penny could only be convicted of criminally negligent homicide, which carried a maximum four-year sentence.
After deliberations, on December 9, 2024, the jury found Penny NOT GUILTY.
Verdict: The jury ruled that Penny acted in perceived defense of himself and others, thus justifying his actions under the circumstances.
Public Reaction
Support for Penny
- Many viewed Penny as a “Good Samaritan” who acted to protect the public.
- A fundraising campaign for Penny’s legal defense raised over $3 million.
- He received public endorsements from conservative figures and politicians, including Donald Trump and JD Vance.
- Following his acquittal, Penny was invited as a guest of President-elect Donald Trump at the Army-Navy football game in December 2024.
Criticism Against Penny
- Many argued that Penny’s use of force was unnecessary and excessive.
- Activists and civil rights groups, including the ACLU, called it an example of systemic failures in handling mental health and homelessness.
- Protests erupted across New York City demanding justice for Jordan Neely.
- NYC Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul called for improved mental health resources to prevent similar incidents.
Post-Trial Career: Daniel Penny Joins Andreessen Horowitz
Just two months after his acquittal, in February 2025, Penny landed a high-profile job at Andreessen Horowitz (A16Z), a top Silicon Valley venture capital firm.
His Role at Andreessen Horowitz
- Penny was hired as a deal partner on the firm’s American Dynamism team, which invests in government and defense technology.
- The firm praised Penny for his “courage in a tough situation”.
- His role includes strengthening relationships with the Department of Defense and public safety sectors.
Controversy Over the Hiring
- Many viewed his swift move into a prestigious corporate role as controversial.
- Critics argued that Penny was rewarded despite taking a life.
- Supporters saw it as redemption for a man they believe was unjustly vilified.
Net Worth and Income Sources
As of 2025, Daniel Penny’s estimated net worth is $2-3 million. His income sources include:
| Income Source | Details |
|---|---|
| Military Salary | Earned as a U.S. Marine (2017–2021) |
| Legal Defense Fund | Raised over $3 million (unknown how much he personally received) |
| Corporate Salary | Investor role at Andreessen Horowitz |
| Public Speaking/Media Deals | Potential future earnings |
While Penny has no known endorsement deals yet, his corporate career may lead to long-term financial stability.
Lesser-Known Facts About Daniel Penny
- Served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, reaching Sergeant rank.
- The chokehold incident was caught on video, leading to viral debate.
- Raised over $3 million in legal defense funds.
- His trial ended in a not guilty verdict in December 2024.
- He attended the Army-Navy game with Donald Trump after his acquittal.
- Hired by Andreessen Horowitz as an investor in early 2025.
- Became a symbol of self-defense debates in America.
- Still lives in New York City and was seen riding the subway post-trial.
Conclusion
Daniel Penny’s story is one of controversy, legal battles, and unexpected corporate success. His acquittal and subsequent hiring at Andreessen Horowitz continue to spark debates about self-defense, criminal justice, and public safety.
His future remains uncertain, but his transition from a Marine to a national figure and now a venture capitalist makes him one of the most talked-about figures in 2025.
NOTE: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only.
