(ANSA) - WASHINGTON, MAR 9 - With the selection of 16 jurors, which will last three weeks, the trial of former policeman Derek Chauvin began today in Minneapolis, accused of killing African American George Floyd nine months ago while keeping his knee on his neck for eight minutes despite saying "I can't breathe".
Three other former officers who participated in the arrest will be tried on less serious charges in separate proceedings.
The incident sparked one of the largest protests in the country against racism and police brutality.
Present today in the classroom Chauvin, who takes notes on unblock-notes.
The former policeman is currently accused of involuntary second degree murder and manslaughter.
Yesterday the prosecution had asked Judge Peter Cahill to postpone the trial to evaluate first - as requested by a court of appeal - even third degree murder: an accusation that requires demonstrating a reckless indifference to human life and that could make it easier get a conviction.
But the magistrate has decided that it is time to begin the debate and has begun the interrogation of the potential jurors.
For security reasons and due to existing pressures, their names are covered by secrecy and cameras cannot take them.
The huge media coverage of the murder and the protests that ensued have made it difficult to find citizens who can attest to their impartiality.
In December, potential jury members were sent a 16-page document with questions about their views on the Black Lives Matter movement, the police and their relationship with the agents.
The prosecution and defense will be able to refuse his appointment with "cause", towards those whose impartiality will be questioned, or "without cause" in limited cases.
The first sworn candidate, a Mexican-born nurse, was dismissed for her poor knowledge of English and admitting that she could be influenced by media coverage.
The trial will only go live on 29 March.
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