The Trial of Derek Chauvin

By Dylan O'Donnell and Matilda Fletcher

As you may have heard from someone or from watching the news, a Black man named George Floyd was killed on May 25, 2020 by an officer named Derek Chauvin. The trial was to test Derek Chauvin’s innocence/guilt and ended two months ago on April 15, 2021. Looking at Chauvin’s past, he’s been reprimanded multiple times before the death of George Floyd. Seventeen people had accused him of unlawful violence; he used excessive force against people he was arresting. If this pattern kept happening, why did no one stop him, and how is he supposed to be a good influence to newer officers? People let him abuse his power for over 20 years without question.

During the trial, Chauvin’s defense team tried to argue that George Floyd died of a drug overdose or pre-existing heart problems. The autopsy later revealed that he had died of cardiopulmonary arrest, or heart failure, so the judge and jury were opposed to the defendants claim. Chauvin was found guilty of second-degree unintentional murder, third degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. Second-degree unintentional murder is when one has the intent to harm, not to kill. Third degree murder is acting dangerously and without regard to others. Second-degree manslaughter is one’s actions creating risk of great bodily harm or even death. Chauvin was found guilty and could now serve up to 75 years in prison. His sentencing date is set for the 25th. Under Minnesota law, he will only be sentenced for second-degree murder, as it is the most serious charge.

Overall, justice was not achieved, as George Floyd is still dead, but there was accountability. Chauvin was found guilty and held accountable for his actions. America is slowly getting better at seeing the issues in the system, and punishing racist people more accordingly.

Originally published 6/2021

Image from NPR.org