Microsoft and Big Tech Can’t Distance Themselves From the Police Violence They Fuel Tech companies praised the Derek Chauvin conviction, but their products underwrite the kind of impunity and overstep they claim to oppose. Paula Bronstein/Getty Images A few hours after a jury found Derek Chauvin guilty of three charges in the murder of George Floyd, Microsoft’s president, Brad Smith, announced his sympathy and support for the outcome. “Today’s verdict is a step forward in acknowledging painful truths and for the continued cause of defeating racism and fighting discrimination,” tweeted Smith, linking to a brief company statement: “Our company remains committed to the continued path ahead.”