A judge in the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin granted prosecutors’ request to add a third-degree murder charge Thursday, giving the jury more options as it considers Chauvin’s culpability in the death of George Floyd.
via USA Today:
Chauvin is also charged with second-degree murder and manslaughter in the death of Floyd in May. Prosecutors contend Floyd, 46, was killed by Chauvin’s knee, compressed against Floyd’s neck for more than 9 minutes while he was handcuffed and pinned to the pavement.
Jury selection continued Thursday following debate on the new charge. Potential jurors were questioned about their knowledge of the case and the protests over Floyd’s death and asked whether they can set aside any existing opinions to serve impartially.
By end of proceedings Thursday, six jurors had been chosen. A few seemed eager; others fearful, some expressing safety concerns about serving on such a high-profile and divisive case, especially if their identity became public. Many had established clear opinions on the events that led to Chauvin’s arrest, but some didn’t follow the specifics on what led to Floyd’s death and the ensuing protests and riots.
It’s the least they could do. The absolute least.
