Derek Chauvin has been sentenced to 22.5 years in jail for the murder of George Floyd.
Following an extensive three-week trial in April, a jury found the former Minneapolis police officer guilty of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and manslaughter in the death of Floyd.
A piece of key evidence brought forward in the trial was video footage of Chauvin pinning Floyd to the ground with his knees pressed into the man’s neck and back. The video sparked global protests against police violence and racism. The young woman who recorded it was awarded a special citation by the Pulitzer Board, for “highlighting the crucial role of citizens in journalists’ quest for truth and justice.”
(Image via C-SPAN.)
In reading his decision, Judge Peter Cahill acknowledged that the sentence is higher than that recommended by the state’s guidelines. He explained that his decision took into account Chauvin’s “abuse of a position of trust and authority,” as well as the “particular cruelty” shown to Floyd.
Judge Cahill says he will issue a 22-page memorandum explaining the rationale for the sentence.
Chauvin will get credit for close to 200 days already spent in custody. He is prohibited from owning firearms and ammunition, and must register as a predatory offender.
Upon hearing his sentence, Chauvin was then remanded back into custody.
