A Minneapolis police officer will now be charged with second degree murder.
Minneapolis, United States:
The Minneapolis police officer who kneeled on the neck of a later black man will now be charged with second degree murder, and his three colleagues will also be charged, said Senator Amy Klobuchar on Wednesday.
The May 25 death of George Floyd – who had been charged with trying to buy cigarettes with a counterfeit bill – sparked protests across the United States against systemic racism and police brutality.
“Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison increases charges against Derek Chauvin to the 2nd degree in the murder of George Floyd and also charges 3 other officers,” Klobuchar tweeted.
“This is another important step for justice.”
Chauvin was charged last week with third degree murder, which is roughly similar to manslaughter. A charge of second degree murder does not suggest premeditation but carries more severe penalties.
