Chauvin attorneys file appeal asking for new trial
Derek Chauvin is shown kneeling on George Floyd's neck in bystander video captured by Darnella Frazier. (Courtesy of Darnella Frazier)
Attorneys representing former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin have filed an appeal in his case, requesting a new trial in the killing of George Floyd.
Chauvin was convicted of second- and third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in April 2021 for Floyd’s death. He was sentenced to 22½ years in prison.
Chauvin’s lawyers claim it was impossible for him to get a fair trial in the Twin Cities with the unrest following the death of Floyd.
His attorneys also argue the case, and its pretrial news coverage was more extensive than any other court case in state history.
“This coverage glorified Floyd and demonized Chauvin,” his lawyers write in the appellant brief.
Chauvin’s attorneys note the killing of Daunte Wright and subsequent unrest also occurred while the jury was not sequestered, despite the fact that Hennepin County was under a curfew due to the protests.
No court hearings have been scheduled in Chauvin’s appeal for a new trial.