Derek Chauvin’s Trial to Begin Today in Death of George Floyd

The highly anticipated trial of former Minneapolis Officer Derek Chauvin is set to begin today and here’s what you’ll need to know: Chauvin is standing trial for the death of George Floyd. Last year, on May 25th, 46-year-old Floyd was questioned by police over a potential non-violent forgery before he was physically detained. Chauvin was captured on video kneeling on Floyd’s neck for several minutes while he was laying on the ground, handcuffed and complaining that he couldn’t breathe. Floyd was later declared dead at a hospital. The event sparked nationwide protests and riots that lasted throughout the summer. Chauvin was fired from his position and now faces second-degree murder and manslaughter. An appeals court also ruled on Friday that prosecutors can try to reinstate a third-degree murder charge that was previously removed. If Chauvin’s attorney decides to appeal, it could further delay the start of the city’s most high-profile trial ever. But if all goes according to plan, jury selection will begin today. Heightened security measures have been implemented and some 2,000 National Guardsmen will be deployed in the area over the coming weeks.