After an unprecedented murder trial that lasted for weeks, the jury has reached a verdict. Derek Chauvin, a police officer of Minneapolis, Minnesota was charged with second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for his involvement in the death of George Floyd in May of 2020.
The trial was streamed all over the world, and millions of viewers followed the entire case very closely. Recently, a far-left member of Congress incited violence if the jury did not find Chauvin guilty of murder. The judge implied that this incitement could give the defense cause for appeal, if they did not receive a desirable verdict in this case, because the jury may acquit for fear of threats.
The video of George Floyd dying went viral last year, eliciting emotional responses from many viewers on all sides of the issue.
Throughout the trial, the prosecutor showed evidence that Chauvin violated his department’s policy in a multitude of ways, which led to Floyd’s death.
The defense raised concerns regarding Floyd’s drug use and his health problems.
Of course, some skeptics have little to no faith in the criminal justice system, because a lawyer who works for the government cannot be trusted to prosecute a police officer, who also works for the government.
The jury found Derek Chauvin guilty of second degree murder, guilty of third degree murder, and guilty of second degree mansalughter.
This case marks one of the first times in American history that a police officer was convicted of homicide.
The sentencing will likely take place in at least a few months. If appealed, it could take years or decades before Chauvin is sentenced.
Chauvin will be held in jail for the time being. He could serve up to 75 years in prison.
