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At the start of the trial of ex-police officer Derek Chauvin, relatives remember George Floyd, who was brutally arrested in May 2020.
They kneel in front of the courthouse in Minneapolis for eight minutes and 46 seconds.
That's exactly as long as Derek Chauvin kept his knee on George Floyd's neck.
Benjamin Crump / Floyd Family Attorney
“This is a landmark moment, a turning point in American history. So we must pray that America will live up to its high ideals. "
The trial into the violent death of the African American George Floyd has now begun in Minneapolis.
Many people in the US hope for a verdict that will take a stand against racism and police violence.
Arthur Reed / Floyd Family Attorney
“America is one of the most hypocritical countries in the world. They invade other countries, start a war and justify it with human rights violations. And here they violate our rights every day. "
Twelve jurors will determine the guilt or innocence of the accused in the trial.
The charge is second degree murder.
Up to 40 years in prison in the state of Minnesota.
Jerry Blackwell / District Attorney
“You will learn in the course of the trial that on May 25, 2020, Mister Derek Chauvin violated his duties as a police officer by using excessive and disproportionate violence against Mister George Floyd. The evidence will show that Derek Chauvin was aware that Mister Floyd was unarmed and did not threaten anyone, that he was handcuffed and that the police had him under control, he was defenseless. "
Chauvin's attorneys state in court that the operation against Floyd was justified because he resisted the arrest.
They also argue that Floyd's death was not due to violence, but mainly to his bad health and drug residues in his blood.
Eric Nelson / Derek Chauvin's attorney
“Derek Chauvin did exactly what he learned in his 19 years of service. Using force isn't nice, but it's a necessary part of policing. "
Should the jury acquit Chauvin of the charge of second degree murder, only a manslaughter conviction would be possible.
This would mean a comparatively low prison sentence.
An acquittal is even possible on all points.
Justin Miller / Floyd family lawyer
“It's perfectly normal and sad: But this country has not been fair to African Americans in the course of its history. Hopefully something will change now in policing African Americans in America. "
The judge responsible assumes that the main proceedings could take up to a month.