Derek Chauvin seeks new trial in George Floyd murder case

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin is seeking a new trial in his conviction in the 2020 murder of George Floyd. His attorney appealed and asked the court to vacate three criminal convictions.  The filing accuses prosecutors of misconduct and argues false expert testimony deprived Chauvin of a fair trial.

Background on Convictions

Chauvin was convicted of murder in 2021. Judge Peter Cahill sentenced him to 22½ years, above state guidelines. The judge cited Chauvin’s authority as a police officer and the particular cruelty shown in George Floyd’s killing.

Three officers at the scene, Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao, were convicted federally for violating Floyd’s civil rights.

Derek Chauvin’s Previous Appeals

This is not Chauvin’s first attempt to overturn the verdict. His attorney previously appealed, citing jury bias and publicity. One juror attended a civil rights gathering honoring Martin Luther King Jr. but disclosed that participation only after the trial. An appeals court ruled the lower court handled jury selection appropriately despite media attention.

Federal Sentencing

Separately, Chauvin was sentenced in federal court in 2022 to 252 months plus time served. The Justice Department found he used unreasonable force against Floyd and a 14‑year‑old victim.