The George Floyd case sparked a huge movement as Derek Chauvin (former police officer) was caught on film kneeling on Floyd’s neck for roughly around 10 mins. The incident happened last May but thanks to the people who stood up for the case and brought justice for George Floyd.
It was also largely because of the footage that was spread across social media that people globally raised their voice against the injustice and put a cop on trial. In many previous instances even bringing the cops to the court was not possible, hardly any were charged or tried.
The acts done by Derek Chauvin showcase racial injustice and the wrong use of excessive force on a suspect. The charges against which Chauvin has been found guilty include three serious offenses:
- Second-Degree Murder.
- Third-Degree Murder.
- Man Slaughter.
As per BBC, Derek appealed for bail which was instantly rejected and he was put in the custody of the police. It will take around two months for the sentencing to take place. There are very high chances that Derek will spend at least a decade in jail. Although the Minnesota legislation states that a second-degree murderer can be sentenced to a maximum of 40 years imprisonment, while a third-degree murder is punishable for a maximum of 25 years in prison. On the other hand, second-degree manslaughter can lead to around 10 years of imprisonment.
Derek will make an appeal against the verdict as it is expected, however, it does not seem likely that the appeal would be catered, especially now that the entire world is involved in the black lives matter movement and all the international media has eyes on what the U.S legislation will do about a corrupt and racist cop.
As mentioned in the beginning that it is not often that police officers are charged or tried for their violent acts against innocent civilians. It is indeed very rare for them to be convicted that too if they are charged as guilty, which too happens seldom.
This step by the U.S legal system will serve as a great foundation on how people of color and minorities will be treated in the future and how the U.S police department will better train and onboard officers who are more compassionate than violent. Later this year three more officers will face trial on the charge of aiding and abetting in this case.
The jury consisted of 12 members and was quick to reach a verdict as it was done within a days’ time only, Minneapolis was on the edge as the verdict followed a three-week trial. Hundreds of people outside the court cheered as the final verdict was announced.
The Floyd family’s lawyer, Ben Crump, said in a tweet,
It marked a turning point in history for the US. Painfully earned justice has finally arrived, it sends a clear message on the need for accountability of law enforcement.
People are very happy with the verdict, in fact, countless celebrities have tweeted in favor of it!
