A year after the brutal death of George Floyd († 46), a first judgment has been made against the people involved. Ex-police officer Derek Chauvin (45), who was primarily responsible for Floyd’s death, has been behind bars for 22.5 years. That was decided by a court in the city of Minneapolis on Friday. Chauvin was found guilty by juries in April, including second-degree murder.
Judge Peter Cahill did not go into detail about the derivation of the verdict, but said it was not a verdict “based on public opinion or emotions.” Cahill had recognized the gravity of the crime.
The prosecution called for 30 years in prison, while the defense of Chauvin called for a suspended sentence. Prosecutor Matthew Frank justified the verdict on Friday by saying that Chauvin had “abused his power”. We have no doubt that police officers are extremely demanding jobs and also make mistakes. However, Chauvin disregarded all guidelines and acted violently. This is unacceptable.”
Tears on the lectern
Before the verdict was announced, Floyd’s relatives were given one more opportunity to express their views. «Millions of people saw my uncle’s death. I still can’t find words to describe the pain I have to endure every day, ”says Floyd’s nephew Brandon Williams. “We’ll never be able to celebrate family celebrations again. Our family must live forever with broken hearts. “
George Floyd’s brother Terrence bursts into tears at the lectern. «I just ask myself: what were you thinking? What went through your head when you put my brother’s knee on the neck? ”He asks in the direction of Chauvin. The second brother Philonise Floyd says that only the maximum sentence will help the family finally find peace.
“He has a big heart”
Chauvin’s mother, Carolyn Pawlenty, said her son had been labeled a racist and a monster for the past few months. That broke her heart. “I’ve always believed in your innocence,” she said to her son through tears. Chauvin is a “calm and honorable” person. “He has a big heart,” said Pawlenty. The ex-police officer himself took the statement on without emotion.
Chauvin himself turned to the family for the first time. “I would like to express my condolences to the relatives,” he said. A full statement was not made, however.
Floyd died on May 25, 2020 after being brutally arrested. Police officer Derek Chauvin pressed his knee to Chauvin’s neck for over nine minutes, even as he was begging for help. Floyd passed out and passed away a little later. The arrest was made on suspicion of paying with a fake $ 20 bill. Floyd’s brutal death sparked violent reactions from around the world.
Chauvin himself can appeal the judgment. (zis)