Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar has announced that Minnesota Attorney General, Keith Ellison, will be increasing Derek Chauvin charges to 2nd degree in George Floyd’s murder and also charging the other 3 officers involved.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is increasing charges against Derek Chauvin to 2nd degree in George Floyd’s murder and also charging other 3 officers. This is another important step for justice.
— Amy Klobuchar (@amyklobuchar) June 3, 2020
George Floyd died in police custody on Memorial Day, and a bystander recorded the former video police officer, Derek Chauvin, kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than eight minutes. Another video shows Officers Keung and Lane also put their body weight on Floyd during the arrest. Officer Thao stood by with his back turned during the arrest.
Chauvin was previously charged with third-degree murder.
Floyd’s death has sparked anti-police brutality protests in dozens of major cities. There have been thousands of protestors marching peacefully, unfortunately, some have turned into riots.
Ben Crump, an attorney for the Floyd family, released a statement on Twitter following Klobuchar’s announcement.
FAMILY’S REACTION: This is a bittersweet moment. We are deeply gratified that @AGEllison took decisive action, arresting & charging ALL the officers involved in #GeorgeFloyd's death & upgrading the charge against Derek Chauvin to felony second-degree murder. #JusticeForGeorge pic.twitter.com/jTfXFHpsYl
— Benjamin Crump, Esq. (@AttorneyCrump) June 3, 2020