Derek Chauvin has been found guilty by a jury on charges of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and manslaughter for his role in the death of George Floyd last May.
The jury’s verdict came in under 24 hours, signaling little disagreement by the 12 men and women on whether the former Minneapolis police officer murdered Floyd when placing him under arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill at a gas station.
“No family in history ever got this far. We were able to get a guilty charge on all counts … This right here is for everyone that’s been in this situation,” George Floyd’s brother, Rodney Floyd said.
Chauvin was found guilty on all charges he faced, handing a major win to prosecutors who promised the public justice in a case that fundamentally changed how the country discussed race and policing. The verdict sparked celebrations outside the courthouse.
“Painfully earned justice has arrived for George Floyd’s family and the community here in Minneapolis, but today’s verdict goes far beyond this city and has significant implications for the country and even the world. Justice for Black America is justice for all of America,” said Floyd family attorney Ben Crump in a statement.
“This case is a turning point in American history for accountability of law enforcement and sends a clear message we hope is heard clearly in every city and every state. We thank Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and his team for their fierce dedication to justice for George. But it does not end here. We have not forgotten that the other three officers who played their own roles in the death of George Floyd must still be held accountable for their actions, as well.”
Chauvin, 45, faces up to 40 years in prison. His sentencing hearing will take place in eight weeks.
“We were watching every second of this … We’re all so relieved. Not guilty on one verdict, but all three … We’re going to get a lot more done. We’re going to do a lot. We’re going to stay at it until we get it done,” President Joe iden told the Floyd family in a phone call shortly after court adjourned.
