Christopher Neely, uncle of Jordan Neely, was arrested this week following an extensive search by law enforcement officials for his involvement in a series of thefts.
The 44-year-old was captured by New York Police Department officers near the Port Authority Bus Terminal after attempting to evade arrest.
Recognized as a suspect in a pattern of robberies, Neely’s escape was thwarted by vigilant officers, as reported by the New York Post.
During the arrest, Neely was found in possession of credit cards belonging to multiple victims.
Additionally, he was armed with a gravity knife, further compounding the seriousness of the situation.
The New York Post confirmed that Neely’s apprehension took place in close proximity to the Port Authority Bus Terminal. He had been wanted for stealing purses from various restaurants in the area.
Neely now faces several charges, including criminal possession of stolen property, resisting arrest, bail jumping, and unlawful possession of a weapon, according to the report.
The Daily Mail highlighted Neely’s extensive criminal history, reporting over 70 prior arrests and two active warrants at the time of his arrest.
Christopher Neely’s arrest coincides with his expressed opposition to Daniel Penny, the individual responsible for his nephew’s fatal chokehold, receiving a plea deal in the case.
“I want this to go to trial,” Neely affirmed. “He has too much confidence in himself and must learn that his actions were unequivocally wrong.”
Daniel Penny, a 24-year-old former U.S. Marine, faces charges of second-degree manslaughter, which carry a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison if he is convicted.
In a recent interview with the New York Post, Penny categorically denied any racial motivations behind the incident.
He claimed the altercation had no bearing on race and explained his approach to judging others based on their character rather than their skin color.
“This had nothing to do with race,” Penny affirmed. “I judge a person based on their character. I’m not a white supremacist. It’s almost comical, really. Those who have crossed paths with me can attest that I embrace all individuals and cultures. My past experiences and travels around the world attest to this fact. In fact, I had plans for a road trip through Africa prior to this unfortunate event.”
While Penny refrained from discussing the details of the incident due to the pending legal case, he did express that it was unlike anything he had experienced before.
