Derek Chauvin, the officer who kneeled on George Floyd's neck and caused his death has been released from prison. (Minnesota Department of Corrections)
Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis officer who kneeled on George Floyd’s neck for nearly 10 minutes, has been found guilty on all counts.
The jury in the trial deliberated for 10 hours, returning a verdict for three counts: Guilty of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter.
Derek Chauvin looked shook as he was cuffed and dragged back to jail, where he was remanded as he waits at least eight weeks until sentencing.
“GUILTY! Painfully earned justice has finally arrived for George Floyd’s family. This verdict is a turning point in history and sends a clear message on the need for accountability of law enforcement. Justice for Black America is justice for all of America!” said civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is representing George Floyd’s family.
As we move forward with this monumental case, here’s what we can expect in the future: According to ABC News, each count carries a different maximum sentence: 40 years for second-degree unintentional murder, 25 years for third-degree murder, and 10 years for the lesser charge of second-degree manslaughter.
Under Minnesota sentencing guidelines, however, for a person with no criminal history, each murder charge carries a presumptive sentence of 12 1/2 years in prison, while manslaughter has a presumptive sentence of four years.
It should be noted though that prosecutors are seeking a sentence that goes above the guideline range.
The three other officers involved in George Floyd’s murder will go to trial this summer, most likely after Chauvin’s sentencing.
We’ll keep you posted on all updates in Chauvin’s case, as well as the cases of the other former officers. Our prayers are with George Floyd’s family at this time.
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