Daniel Penny, the former Marine acquitted for his role in the subway chokehold death of Jordan Neely, has secured employment at the prestigious Silicon Valley venture capital firm, Andreessen Horowitz, less than two months after his acquittal. This hiring has sparked interest and debate as it reflects the firm’s stance on his actions during the controversial incident.
Penny's role at Andreessen Horowitz, where he will serve as a deal partner focusing on the firm's American Dynamism practice, has been framed as rewarding the “courage” he exhibited, according to internal communications. David Ulevitch, a partner at the firm, expressed his belief, shared by many within the company, stating, “I believe, as I know many of you do, Daniel acted with courage in a tough situation.”
The incident, which occurred on May 1, 2023, involved Neely, who was reported to have threatened passengers on the uptown F train. Penny placed Neely, 30, in a chokehold for several minutes, resulting in Neely's death. Following the tragic outcome, Penny faced serious charges, including criminally negligent homicide, which could have led to up to 20 years of imprisonment. A Manhattan jury acquitted him on December 9, making this hiring particularly timely.
Despite the high-profile nature of the case, which became a focal point of national debate over public safety and justice, Penny has remained largely out of the spotlight since the trial concluded. He was recently spotted attending the annual Army-Navy football game with notable political figures, including former President Donald Trump and U.S. Vice President JD Vance, just five days after he was found not guilty.
Penny’s position at Andreessen Horowitz is significant not only for his career but also for the firm itself. Ulevitch stated, “He will learn the business of investing and he will work to support our portfolio,” emphasizing Penny’s role will also include enhancing relationships with the Department of Defense and the public safety sector.
The nature of the subway incident provoked varying reactions from the public and political commentators alike. Penny’s actions, at the time, were interpreted by some as heroic, aimed at protecting fellow passengers, whereas others decried the use of deadly force against someone who was struggling with mental health issues and had been underserved by social services.
Ulevitch's statement reflects Andreessen Horowitz's broader philosophy of assessing individuals not solely by their most regrettable moments but also taking their full character and intent, saying, “We do not judge them for the worst moment of their entire life.” This approach has drawn both praise and criticism, as some view it as commendable, whereas others see it as dismissive of the serious consequences of Penny’s actions.
Following the announcement of his hiring, Vice President JD Vance took to social media, proclaiming it “incredible news.” His support reflects broader political alignments, as both Vance and some of Andreessen Horowitz's founders, Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz, have publicly backed former President Trump and related political agendas, illustrating the intertwining of business and politics in today’s climate.
While Penny's story remains fresh in the minds of many, his transition to the private sector may serve as both inspiration and controversy. Some critics argue this reflects how privilege can afford second chances, even post-trauma. Supporters, on the other hand, may view Penny's employment as validation of his choices made during the subway incident.
Lastly, Penny has resumed some semblance of normalcy since his acquittal, stating he still rides the subway and engages with everyday life. This human aspect of his story juxtaposes the legal and moral debates surrounding his actions, capturing the complex fabric of American society’s views on crime, defense, and accountability.
With his new role, Penny not only steps back onto the professional playing field but continues to be a figure of division and discussion, embodying the difficult and often polarizing conversations about courage, control, and the justice system.