Beyond jury selection, there were new revelations about the investigation into George Floyd’s death and hints of strategy from both sides in the landmark case.
The judge in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged with murdering George Floyd, said on Monday he was concerned publicity about the city's $27 million settlement with Floyd's family could influence jurors.
By Jonathan Allen (Reuters) - The judge in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged with murdering George Floyd, said on Monday he was concerned publicity about the city s $27 million settlement with Floyd s family could influence jurors. Calling the timing of Friday s settlement announcement unfortunate, Judge Peter Cahill of the Hennepin County District Court said he would recall seven jurors seated last week to ask if they had seen news of the settlement and whether it would affect their impartiality. I wish city officials would stop talking about this case so much, the judge said before resuming jury selection on Monday morning. At the same time, I don t find any evil intent that they are trying to tamper with the criminal case. Chauvin, who is white, was captured in a bystander video with his knee on Floyd s neck for nearly nine minutes as Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man in handcuffs, cried out for his life. The death ignited global protests against
Friday’s announcement that the city will pay a record $27 million to Floyd’s family to settle a wrongful-death lawsuit renews uncertainty about the case.