Derek Chauvin found guilty of all three charges in the murder of George Floyd

A final verdict in the murder trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was released on Tuesday, finding him guilty in all charges. Jurors were sequestered on Monday following closing arguments by both legal teams.

Chauvin faced charges of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in the 2020 killing of George Floyd.

The prosecution described George Floyd’s final moments during closing arguments on Monday. In his closing arguments, defense attorney Eric Nelson argued that Chauvin was acting as a “reasonable police officer.”

Floyd, a Black man, died in police custody on May 25, 2020, after Chauvin pinned his knee against Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes. Chauvin is charged with second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. In total, the former police officer faces over 40 years in prison.

“That action is not deescalation … that violates our policy,” Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo said. Arradondo also stated Derek Chauvin did not follow police department policy during George Floyd’s arrest. 

These are the three charges Derek Chauvin has been convicted of in George Floyd’s death.

The Charges

1. Second-degree murder – GUILTY
   The hardest charge to prove and the one with the longest potential sentence. The state had to convince the jury that Chauvin killed Floyd while committing a felony. It carries a maximum sentence of 40 years, and sentencing guidelines recommend 12.5 years.
2. Third-degree murder – GUILTY
   The original charge filed against Chauvin. It required prosecutors to show that Chauvin killed Floyd while acting in an “eminently dangerous” way that evinces “a depraved mind, without regard for human life.” The maximum prison term is 25 years.
3. Second-degree manslaughter – GUILTY
   Causing death through negligence. Carries maximum jail time of 10 years and a recommended sentence of four years.