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Minneapolis Attorney Faces Crisis Over Neely Case

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, January 20th 2026 at 21:32 GMT by CNN
      Locales: Minnesota, UNITED STATES

Minneapolis, MN - January 21st, 2026 - Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty is embroiled in a deepening crisis, facing intense public and legal pressure related to her past involvement with the case of Jordan Neely, the individual who died in a fatal altercation on a New York City subway in May 2025. The controversy, already complex, has escalated significantly in recent weeks, threatening Moriarty's re-election bid and sparking a broader national conversation about prosecutorial discretion, mental health, and public safety.

The core of the issue stems from Moriarty's prior role as a senior figure at the Minneapolis Public Defender's Office. Prior to Neely's relocation to New York, his legal records passed through her office for review - a detail now being used as a central argument in a burgeoning campaign to remove her from office. While the passenger who pushed Neely onto the subway tracks was initially charged with manslaughter, those charges were subsequently dropped, further fueling the discontent.

A Petition and Rising Accusations

A rapidly gaining online petition is demanding Moriarty's immediate removal, accusing her of prosecutorial misconduct and incompetence. The petition's organizers argue that her prior review of Neely's records inherently biases her ability to fairly handle any potential investigations or legal proceedings related to the events in New York City. They contend that Moriarty's actions demonstrate a prioritization of Neely's welfare, to the detriment of the safety and well-being of the public. The petition has garnered significant traction, reflecting the deep divisions within Hennepin County.

Moriarty's Defense and the Complexity of the Case

Responding to the criticism, Moriarty has repeatedly defended her past actions, stressing the profound complexities surrounding Neely's life and circumstances. Speaking on CNN's AC360, she explained that her office's prior involvement was purely procedural, stemming from a standard review process. She emphasized Neely's documented struggles with severe mental illness and chronic homelessness, asserting that any decision regarding prosecution should account for those factors and the potential trauma a legal battle would inflict on an already vulnerable individual. Moriarty has consistently maintained that her decisions were based on a thorough evaluation of all available information and a commitment to justice, not a personal bias.

A Divided Community and Legal Debate

The case has profoundly fractured Hennepin County. Neely's family has publicly expressed appreciation for what they perceive as Moriarty's compassion and understanding in dealing with his past legal challenges. Conversely, the family of the victim of the subway altercation remains vehemently opposed, arguing that Neely's actions warrant full accountability and that Moriarty's perceived leniency undermines the principles of justice.

Legal experts across the state are actively debating the ethical and legal ramifications of Moriarty's conduct. Some argue that her prior involvement created an unavoidable conflict of interest, while others maintain that she acted within her discretionary power, considering the totality of Neely's circumstances. The legality of the petition for her removal is also being heavily scrutinized, with legal challenges anticipated.

Political Implications and the Road Ahead

This controversy arrives at a critical juncture for Moriarty. She is facing re-election in November 2026, and the petition's success could significantly jeopardize her chances of securing a second term. Political analysts predict a highly contentious election season, with the Neely case poised to dominate the campaign discourse. While Moriarty has allies who champion her progressive approach to criminal justice reform, the growing public outcry and the potential for legal challenges present a formidable obstacle to her continued tenure as Hennepin County Attorney. The coming months will likely see a continued escalation in scrutiny, legal challenges, and a heightened debate about the balance between compassion, justice, and public safety.