Derek Chauvin, the white ex-cop accused of killing African-American George Floyd last year, was found guilty. The verdict disposed of liability for all charges in connection with Floyd’s death on May 25, 2020.
A jury of seven women and five men deliberated behind closed doors for less than two days at the end of a three-week trial. Chauvin, 45, could spend decades behind bars, however, his sentence will be stated. However, it all depends on mitigating factors and case law. Among others, he was found guilty of “second-degree unintentional murder”. This is a crime punishable by up to 40 years in prison.
The former Minneapolis police officer was also found guilty of second-degree manslaughter. The crime carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison. This charge involves culpable negligence. It accounts for knowingly undertaking to endanger the lives of others.
You can read: Minneapolis and the U.S. in a tense suspense over George Floyd case
In addition, he was charged with “third-degree murder”. It carries up to 25 years in prison. This charge applies to persons who have caused death without intent to cause death. A death resulting from committing an act dangerous to others in a “depraved spirit”. The definition clarifies that the action must denote “disregard for human life”.
Derek Chauvin found guilty
Before the jury’s decision was read, U.S. President Joe Biden spoke out. He said the evidence at trial was “overwhelming.” “I’m praying the verdict is the right verdict. It’s overwhelming, in my view. I wouldn’t say that unless the jury was sequestered now,” he said from the Oval Office.
Many Americans consider the jury’s decision correct. However, there are sectors that have said that the “guilty” plea was politically appropriate. However, the announcement of the verdict triggered an explosion of joy in front of the courthouse.
The verdict was read in open court after 4:00 p.m. local time. Judge Peter Cahill gave precise instructions on Monday given the seriousness of the case. He stressed the state of national tension. “You must not let bias, prejudice, passion, sympathy, or public opinion influence your decision,” Cahill said. “You must not consider any consequences or penalties that might follow from your verdict.”
A compelling case
Derek Chauvin was unanimously convicted. However, police convictions for murder are very rare in the United States. Juries tend to give them the benefit of the doubt. But the evidence proved overwhelming to the 12 jurors. system” he said. He added that the difference this time was the horrible video. The difference from other cases was the documentary evidence disclosed by a bystander.
Traslated by: José Espinoza
Latinx Newswire
