Daniel Penny's trial for manslaughter begins in October 2024

In the United States, the trial of Daniel Penny, a Marine veteran accused of killing a homeless man by placing him in a chokehold 18 months ago, faces significant delays due to a challenging jury selection process. The trial is expected to last six weeks as Penny is charged with negligent homicide and manslaughter. Manhattan's Supreme Court is grappling with finding jurors who can serve without significant financial hardship, as jurors in New York are compensated only $40 a day after their employers cover the first three days of absence. The selection process has already extended beyond a week, with approximately 450 potential jurors called in to assess their availability for the lengthy trial. Many of those summoned are regular subway riders, and their experiences and opinions may shape their views on the case. During questioning, jurors were asked about their experiences with issues such as mental illness and homelessness, as well as their feelings of safety while using public transport. Current jury considerations include sympathies towards Penny, given the incident's divisive nature that has sparked widespread debate across the nation. Judge Maxwell Wiley aims to finalize a jury panel of 12 by the end of the week, allowing the trial to begin soon after. If convicted, Penny could face up to 19 years in prison, underscoring the case's gravity and public interest. Choosing a fair jury is critical in such a charged atmosphere, as their collective perspective will ultimately influence the trial's outcome.