The three other Minneapolis police officers at the scene of George Floyd’s death will be charged with aiding and abetting murder, according to multiple law enforcement sources familiar with the case.
Ellison held a news conference Wednesday to discuss the charges.
“We strongly believe these developments are in the interest of justice for Mr. Floyd, his family, this community and our state,” he said. “George Floyd mattered. He was loved, his family was important and his life had value,” Ellison said. “We will seek justice for him and for you and we will find it.”
However, he acknowledged, “I don’t believe one successful prosecution can reflect the hurt and loss that people feel.”
Former officer Derek Chauvin, who recorded on video kneeling on Floyd’s neck as he begged for air on May 25, now faces the more serious second-degree murder charges, in addition to the original charges of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter with culpable negligence.
BREAKING: Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is increasing charges against Derek Chauvin to 2nd degree murder in George Floyd’s case and also charging the other 3 officers, @amyklobuchar confirms. #GeorgeFloyd
— Omar Jimenez (@OmarJimenez) June 3, 2020
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is increasing charges against Derek Chauvin to 2nd degree in George Floyd’s murder and also charging other 3 officers. This is another important step for justice.
— Amy Klobuchar (@amyklobuchar) June 3, 2020