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The Minneapolis police officer who kneeled on the neck of a black man who later died will now be charged with second-degree murder, and his three colleagues will also face charges, Senator Amy Klobuchar said Wednesday.
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The May 25 death of George Floyd – who had been accused of trying to buy cigarettes with a counterfeit bill – has ignited protests across the United States over systemic racism and police brutality.
“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,” Klobuchar tweeted.
“This is another important step for justice.”
Chauvin was charged last week with third-degree murder, which is roughly akin to manslaughter. A charge of second-degree murder does not suggest premeditation but carries stiffer penalties.
Court documents show the second-degree murder charge was added to the prior charges.
EN NW SOT ATTORNEY GENERAL FLOYD 22H
The three other officers have been charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder, documents show.
In a statement, Floyd's family described news of the new charges as a "bittersweet moment."
"This is a significant step forward on the road to justice, and we are gratified that thisRead More – Source
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