In a remarkable turn of events, an outpouring of financial support has flowed into a legal defense fund established for Daniel Penny, a Marine currently embroiled in a high-profile court case in New York City. Accused of second-degree manslaughter, Penny has managed to garner over $2 million in contributions over a short span of time, with a significant chunk of this funding coming from a variety of prominent conservative figures.
Among those rallying behind Penny is the multi-talented music artist and noted philanthropist, Kid Rock. He has stepped up in a big way to help defray the costs of Penny’s legal representation, extending a considerable financial lifeline to the embattled Marine.
The contentious case at the heart of this support originated from an incident that transpired in the subway. Penny was reported to have employed a chokehold on another passenger, who tragically passed away later. Even though Kid Rock hasn’t spoken out about the incident’s particulars, his monetary aid strongly suggests his conviction in the necessity of a just trial.
Kid Rock’s generous donation of $5,000 came with a poignant message that reads, “Mr. Penny is a hero. Alvin Bragg is a POS.” Joining him in this act of support was Tim Pool, a well-known commentator, who made a sizable donation of $20,000, expressing, “Penny is the Subway Good Samaritan and we are lucky to have brave souls like him who are willing to do the right thing.”
I just donated $20,000 to Daniel Penny's Defense fund
Penny is the Subway Good Samaritan and we are lucky to have brave souls like him who are willing to do the right thing
I will elaborate on my position in my morning segment at 10amhttps://t.co/bfty04IAjl
— Tim Pool (@Timcast) May 15, 2023
Vivek Ramaswamy, a successful American entrepreneur, and a hopeful Republican candidate for the 2024 elections, too, extended his support by donating $10,000. Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida, also publicly backed Penny, lauding him as a Good Samaritan.
The charges leveled against Penny were the handiwork of Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan District Attorney. The case took a turn when Neely, a homeless individual with a troubled past, succumbed to his injuries after a conflict with Penny on a subway train. Bragg, a figure known for his dogged pursuit of justice, has made headlines for his legal actions against high-profile figures, including former President Donald J. Trump.
The legal team representing Penny has put forth the argument that their client took action to safeguard other passengers who were under threat. They initiated the defense fund on the crowdfunding site GiveSendGo, which has seen an overwhelming response.
The collected money will primarily be allocated towards meeting Penny’s legal expenses and any civil litigation costs that may arise. Any surplus funds will be channelled into a mental health advocacy program in New York City.
The charges brought against Penny are serious, and if found guilty, he could be staring at a prison term ranging from five to 15 years. Currently, Penny is out on a $100,000 bail and is expected to make his next court appearance in July.
While the case continues to unfold, it will be intriguing to see how the high-profile backing Penny has received will shape public sentiment and the trial’s eventual resolution. One thing that’s become abundantly clear amidst this unfolding drama is the unabashed willingness of many conservatives to openly back Mr. Penny.