Former Minneapolis Police Officer Thomas Lane Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter in George Floyd’s Death

Iesha May 18, 2022 News Leave a comment

On Wednesday, a former Minneapolis police officer pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the killing of George Floyd.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison stated Wednesday that the ex-officer, Thomas Lane, entered a guilty plea to a state charge of aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter.

A representative from Ellison’s office stated that his aiding and abetting second-degree murder charge was dismissed as part of his plea deal.

According to the spokesperson, the state and defense recommended to the court that Lane be sentenced to three years in prison.

Lane is scheduled to be sentenced on September 21.

“Today, my thoughts are once again with the victims, George Floyd, and his family. Nothing will bring Floyd back. He should still be with us today,” Ellison said.

“I am pleased Thomas Lane has accepted responsibility for his role in Floyd’s death. His acknowledgment he did something wrong is an important step toward healing the wounds of the Floyd family, our community, and the nation,” he continued. “While accountability is not justice, this is a significant moment in this case and a necessary resolution on our continued journey to justice.”

Ellison said the state is preparing for former Minneapolis Police Officers J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao’s second-degree unintentional murder and second-degree manslaughter trial on June 13th.