The acquittal of Daniel Penny in the death of Jordan Neely has led Hawk Newsome, leader of Black Lives Matter Greater New York, to call for the emergence of “Black vigilantes.” Newsome’s comments have intensified the national debate over justice, race, and public safety.
Neely, a homeless man with a long criminal record, died in May 2023 after Penny restrained him in a chokehold on a New York subway. Witnesses testified that Neely threatened passengers, shouting violent statements, which prompted Penny to act.
Following Penny’s acquittal, Newsome delivered an incendiary response, stating, “Everybody else has vigilantes. We need some black vigilantes.” He criticized the justice system and broader societal inequities, adding, “How dare you laugh and cheer when someone gets away with murdering us.”
Newsome also issued harsh criticisms of the United States, accusing the nation of perpetuating systemic injustice against Black people. “America will never fix the issue of black people because America needs a punching bag,” he said, calling for action rather than protests.
Medical testimony during the trial revealed that Neely’s death was caused by a combination of factors, including a sickle cell crisis, schizophrenia, and synthetic marijuana. Forensic expert Dr. Satish Chundru testified that Penny’s chokehold was not the sole cause of death.
The verdict and Newsome’s remarks have sparked renewed discussion on the limits of self-defense and the role of race in the justice system. While Penny’s supporters argue his actions were justified, critics see the case as an example of systemic racial bias.
Newsome’s call for “Black vigilantes” has added another layer of controversy to an already polarizing case.
