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The jury in the George Floyd death case found police officer Derek Chauvin guilty on all counts. The police officer faced charges of second-degree murder, punishable by up to 40 years in prison; third-degree murder, with a maximum sentence of 25 years; and second-degree manslaughter, with a sentence of 10 years.
However, because Chauvin has no prior criminal record, he could only be sentenced to a maximum of 12 and a half years in prison for each of the first two counts and 4 years in prison for the third. The 12-member jury began deliberating Monday after closing arguments by the prosecution and defense.
Tension is evident on the streets of Minneapolis, where thousands of National Guard soldiers and other law enforcement can be seen. Ahead of the trial, businesses in the city remained closed this Monday.
Similarly, Joe Biden also referred to the trial of Derek Chauvin. The president said he expected a “right verdict” and took the opportunity to say that, in his opinion, the evidence is overwhelming.
Meanwhile, the White House said it is prepared for possible protests that may be generated after the verdict. Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the president would wait for the jury’s decision before commenting on the case. However, Biden issued his opinion before knowing the resolution.
George Floyd and Derek Chauvin’s case
On May 25, 2020, videos were released showing the former officer pressing his knee against the neck of Floyd, a 46-year-old black man. Floyd was pronounced dead hours later. Chauvin and other officers arrested the man after he used a counterfeit $20 bill at a convenience store.
