MINNEAPOLIS — All jurors and alternates to hear the case against former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in the death of George Floyd have been selected. Opening statements in the trial are scheduled for March 29.
The 15th and final juror was selected Tuesday morning, more than two weeks after jury selection started. Only 12 jurors will deliberate the outcome of the trial, the others are alternates.
More than 100 potential jurors were called into court and questioned. Many were dismissed after admitting having strong views about Floyd's death.
On Friday, Judge Peter Cahill denied defense attorney requests to delay or move the trial. Chauvin's attorney had argued a massive settlement announced between the City of Minneapolis and the Floyd family during jury selection earlier this month would taint the jury pool and make it more difficult to find an impartial jury.
Derek Chauvin, a white former officer, is charged with second-and-third-degree murder and manslaughter in the May 25 death of Floyd, a Black man. Bystander video widely shared on social media showed Chauvin with his knee on Floyd's neck and back for about nine minutes.
Floyd's death sparked demonstrations and protests in Minneapolis, around the country and across the globe. Many demonstrating to call for an end to police violence against people of color.
Potential jurors are being asked what they know about the May 25, 2020 incident, if they’ve seen videos showing Chauvin with his knee on Floyd’s neck, and if they are aware of the settlement between the City of Minneapolis and Floyd's family.
How can I watch:
Court TV will be the only network with cameras in the courtroom and will provide live, gavel-to-gavel coverage.
The entire trial will be on live TV as well as available online atCourtTV.com, and the Court TV app for Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Android and Apple devices.
In addition to in-depth reporting and expert analysis from veteran legal journalists - most of whom are lawyers -Court TV’s extensive coverage will include new virtual recreations, and insights and discussions from attorneys, investigators and forensic experts.
How can I follow updates:
Court TV will be updating their website,CourtTV.com, as well as their social media platforms and Court TV app for Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Android and Apple devices.
We will also post the latest developments on the trial on our website and social media platforms.
