WASHINGTON - Today, on the fifth day of deliberations, a jury acquitted Daniel Penny, a white man who killed Jordan Neely, a 30-year old Black man that was experiencing a mental health crisis on the

NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement, condemning the decision, warning of the dangerous precedent it sets:

"The NAACP is deeply disappointed by today's jury decision in the tragic death of Jordan Neely. This case sets a dangerous precedent by embracing vigilantism and disregarding the sanctity of human life. Let's be clear - mental health crises are medical emergencies, not crimes. America has yet again criminalized our community and subverted accountability. We remain resolute in our commitment to ensure that Black Americans receive the mental healthcare they deserve and our humanity is respected under the law."

Black Americans African Americans are more likely to experience mental health problems than other groups, and face many challenges in accessing treatment. In the days and months following Jordan Neely's death, media outlets and conservative extremists praised the tragedy, criminalizing Jordan Neely and referring to Penny as a 'superhero.'