The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act: Charges George Floyd’s Killer Derek Chauvin Received

In March of 2021, Derek Chauvin—the Minneapolis police officer responsible for killing George Floyd—faced a jury of his peers for his horrific actions that took place on May 25th, 2020. Chauvin was accused of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter in relation to the death of Floyd.

The events of that day left many shaken, and bruised, and an entire nation wondering how such a horrible act could happen. Was justice to be had?

In the aftermath of Floyd’s death, the movement to bring justice to the victim and accountability to the killer grew stronger and stronger. That justice came in the form of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021, which addressed police reform and accountability. Part of that legislation was that accountability meant criminal charges to be brought against Derek Chauvin.

In April 2021, Chauvin was found guilty of all charges. Below we will explore the details of each individual charge and what they mean.

Second-Degree Murder

The charge of second-degree murder was based on Chauvin’s intent and disregard for Floyd’s life. According to Minnesota law, the charge relies on a jury finding that he purposely caused Floyd’s death by negligently or recklessly acting in a manner indicative of his indifference to human life. In this case, juries found that Chauvin’s failure to use any level of medical care or to reposition Floyd was an act of negligence leading to Floyd’s death.

Third-Degree Murder

The charge of third-degree murder examines the degree of Chauvin’s responsibility for Floyd’s death. It is considered a lesser-inclusion crime than first-degree murder and is based on a finding of criminal negligence. In this case, juries found that Chauvin was grossly negligent in his actions and that his lack of care for Floyd’s life was so apparent that he should have known his actions could result in death.

Second-Degree Manslaughter

The charge of second-degree manslaughter applies to those instances in which a death is caused as a result of gross negligence or recklessness, but not necessarily intent. In this case, juries found that Chauvin was acting recklessly in his handling of Floyd and that he should have known his actions could cause death.

Conclusion

The aftermath of the George Floyd tragedy has brought wounds, heartache, and healing to many. His death has shone a spotlight on police brutality and the need for reform. This case, and ultimate conviction of Derek Chauvin, is the first step in this long journey, but a necessary one. Holding the killer accountable was one of many moving parts in the road to justice and police reform.