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- Daniel Penny, acquitted of criminally negligent homicide, has been hired by Andreessen Horowitz just months after his trial.
- Penny was found not guilty in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely on a subway car in May 2023.
- Andreessen Horowitz cited Penny’s actions as courageous in a tough situation.
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Quick Brief
2-Minute Digest
Essential Context
Daniel Penny, a former Marine and architecture student, was acquitted of criminally negligent homicide in December 2024. He was charged after using a chokehold on Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, on a subway car in May 2023. Neely died as a result of the chokehold.
Core Players
- Daniel Penny – Former Marine, architecture student, and new hire at Andreessen Horowitz
- Jordan Neely – 30-year-old homeless man who died in the incident
- Andreessen Horowitz – Premier investment firm in Silicon Valley
- Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg – Prosecuted the case against Penny
Key Numbers
- 6 minutes – Duration of the chokehold applied by Penny
- 51 seconds – Time Penny held Neely after his body went limp
- 4 years – Maximum sentence for criminally negligent homicide
- 20 years – Potential prison time Penny faced if convicted of manslaughter
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The Catalyst
The acquittal of Daniel Penny marked a significant turn in his life, from facing serious criminal charges to securing a job at a prestigious investment firm.
“Daniel acted with courage in a tough situation,” said David Ulevitch, a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, explaining the decision to hire Penny.
Inside Forces
The trial was highly contentious, with prosecutors arguing that Penny’s actions were reckless and led to Neely’s death. The defense contended that Penny acted to protect subway passengers from Neely, who was behaving erratically.
The jury deliberated for over 24 hours across five days before reaching a verdict, initially deadlocked on the more serious charge of second-degree manslaughter.
Power Dynamics
The hire by Andreessen Horowitz has sparked mixed reactions. Some view it as a swift redemption for Penny, while others see it as insensitive given the recent nature of the trial.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg respected the jury’s verdict but acknowledged the strong emotions surrounding the case.
Outside Impact
The case and subsequent hire have raised questions about justice, public perception, and the consequences of violent encounters. Neely’s family expressed anger and frustration following the acquittal.
The community remains divided, with some supporting Penny’s actions as necessary and others decrying them as unjustified.
Future Forces
The hiring decision may set a precedent for how individuals acquitted of serious crimes are reintegrated into society and the workforce.
Andreessen Horowitz’s move could influence public discourse on second chances and the role of employers in rehabilitating former defendants.
Data Points
- May 2023: Incident occurs on the subway involving Daniel Penny and Jordan Neely.
- December 2024: Penny found not guilty of criminally negligent homicide.
- February 2025: Andreessen Horowitz announces the hiring of Daniel Penny.
- 24+ hours: Jury deliberation time across five days.
The swift transition from a high-profile trial to a prestigious job highlights the complexities of justice, public opinion, and reintegration into society. As this story unfolds, it will continue to shape discussions around redemption, employment, and the legal system.
