January 1, Derek Chauvin Changes Plea in Federal George Floyd Case

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin changed his plea in the federal case pending against him, now pleading guilty to violating George Floyd’s civil rights by using excessive force that killed Floyd while in police custody.

The move means Chauvin will not face a federal trial next month, though he could end up spending more time behind bars.

In April, a jury found Chauvin guilty of murder and manslaughter in the Floyd case. A judge sentenced Chauvin to 22 1/2 years.

The former police officer also pled guilty to using excessive force against a 14-year-old boy in a separate 2017 incident.

During his recent court appearance, Judge Paul Magnuson asked Chauvin if he understood his rights, that without taking the plea deal, he faced up to life in prison. Chauvin confirmed he understood and signed the plea agreement in the courtroom.

Federal prosecutors have recommended a sentence of up to 25 years.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison called Chauvin’s plea change “important and historic.”

“Nobody is above the law, and nobody is beneath it,” Ellison said. “While Floyd’s life is lost to his family and all of us, I hope Chauvin’s change of plea will mark a new beginning for equal justice under the law, respectful treatment for every person in our society, and greater trust in our system of justice.”

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Derek Chauvin pleads guilty to violating George Floyd’s civil rights