Three More Minneapolis Officers Charged In George Floyds Death, Derek Chauvin’s Charges Upgraded

The three remaining former Minneapolis police officers involved in the death of George Floyd have been charged, and charges for Derek Chauvin have been upgraded.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced on Wednesday that the three former Minneapolis police officers would be charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder, according to the complaints filed by the State of Minnesota.

“Trying this case will be hard. History does show there are clear challenges here. But we will seek justice, and we will find it,” Ellison said, according to the New York Times. “What I do not believe is one successful prosecution can rectify the hurt and loss that so many people feel.”

Derek Chauvin, seen kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than eight minutes in the video taken by bystanders, had his charges elevated to second-degree murder. His original charges were third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.

Thomas Lane, 37, Alexander Keung, 26, assisted Derek Chauvin in pinning Floyd to the ground. Tou Thao, 34, is seen on video standing and watching his fellow officers as they pin Floyd to the ground, while Floyd is repeatedly saying he can’t breathe.

Benjamin Crump, attorney for George Floyd’s family, issued a statement on behalf of the family on Wednesday, saying, “this is a bittersweet moment for the family of George Floyd.”

“We are deeply gratified that Attorney General Keith Ellison took decisive action in this case, arresting and charging all the officers involved in George Floyd’s death and upgrading the charge against Derek Chauvin to felony second-degree murder,” the statement said. “This is a significant step forward on the road to justice, and we are gratified that this important action was brought before George Floyd’s body was laid to rest.”

All four cops were immediately fired after video of the incident, and charges were brought against Derek Chauvin last week. Floyd’s death has sparked outrage and protests across the world.