Derek Chauvin, a former Minneaoplis police officer, was convicted of murder and manslaughter. This is the infamous man that pressed his knee on George Floyd’s neck, causing him to suffocate to death. George Floyd was found dead on May 25, 2020, after Chauvin knelt on his neck for 9 minutes and 29 seconds. This was all over an alleged counterfeit 20 bill that a store clerk reported. Almost a year after his death, Floyd is getting the justice he deserves. His death, along with Breonna Taylor’s, sparked riots and a desire for justice throughout the country.
After Floyd’s death, there was immediate retaliation from society. There was a spur of Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests and riots along with many people chanting Floyd’s famous last words “I can’t breathe.” Many fought for his justice, hoping Derek Chauvin would get the punishment that he deserved for ending Floyd’s life.
Chauvin now faces up to 40 years in prison, as he was convincted with second-degree murder, up to 25 years for third-degree murder and up to 10 years for second-deree manslaughter. He has been convicted on all charges in the death of Floyd. His sentence is set to begin on June 16, 2021 at 1:30 P.M. Central Time. Chauvin’s attorneys have 60 days to appeal the outcome. This outcome will be difficult to appeal as there is video of the incident, which surged the riots and anger from society in the first place.
The jury finally deeming Floyd’s killer as guilty is a pivotal point in America. This was a fight for equality, George Floyd deserved justice for his wrongful and disgraceful death by the caucasian police officer, Derek Chauvin. Many view this as a stepping stone towards ending racism in America.
Sources:
https://wgntv.com/news/derek-chauvin-to-be-sentenced-june-16-in-george-floyd-death/
https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/derek-chauvin-trial-04-20-21/index.html
