Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis officer who killed George Floyd by kneeling on his neck for over 9 minutes, has been found guilty of three counts: second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. The charges carry maximum sentences of 40 years, 25 years and 10 years in prison, respectively.
The jury came to their decisions after deliberating for about 10 hours over two days following an emotional trial that lasted three weeks.
The death of George Floyd was captured on video last Memorial Day, leading to months of protest against the police abuse of Black people. The streets in Minneapolis were surrounded by razor wire and guarded by National Guard soldiers as the nation awaited the verdict.
The judge revoked Chauvin’s bond, meaning that he went straight to jail after the judge read the jury’s verdict on Tuesday evening. Under Minnesota law, Chauvin can appeal his conviction after he receives his sentence. Sentencing will be in eight weeks according to Judge Peter Cahill.
