Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin is now facing an additional charge in his trial over the May 25 death of George Floyd, after Judge Peter Cahill reinstated a previously dismissed charge of third-degree murder.
The Hennepin County judge granted prosecutors’ request to add the charge on Thursday, giving jurors more options when weighing the potential punishment for Chauvin over Floyd’s death. The selection process for the jury will continue on Thursday.
Five members have been seated thus far. Chauvin is also being charged with second-degree murder and manslaughter.
Prosecutors argue the former officer killed Floyd after having his knee pushed against his neck for approximately nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and on the ground. (RT)