The United States of America has been on an emotional roller coaster ride over the last 16 months. After centuries of mistreatment at the hands of law officers, American society seemingly reached a tipping point, unlike anything that had been experienced before. The successive deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd triggered protests not only in all 50 states, but in countries across the globe.
In the months since those three deaths, two men have been charged with murder for the death of Arbery and no officers were charged directly with the death of Breonna Taylor. In Minneapolis, things were a bit more complicated in the case surrounding Floyd’s death. Three officers were charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. Leading the way, one officer, Derek Chauvin, was charged directly with second-degree murder, second-degree manslaughter and third-degree manslaughter.
Ten months after Floyd’s death, Chauvin stood trial for his actions on May 25. From medical experts to eyewitnesses, more than two dozens were asked to take the stand as each side made their case. After hearing two weeks’ worth of testimony and arguments, a jury has reached a verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin. Chauvin has been found guilty of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
Derek Chauvin has been found guilty on all three counts, including second- and third-degree murder.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) April 20, 2021
