George Floyd

Prosecutors accuse the former officer and others of using excessive force and violating George Floyd's rights. The rare federal charges follow state charges in a trial in which Chauvin was convicted.

Floyd's death in May 2020 sparked a national reckoning on police violence and systemic racism. Demands for change in Austin led the City Council to cut millions from its police budget.

Chauvin, a former Minneapolis police officer, has been found guilty of unintentional second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.

The president prioritizes racial justice while also acting as an ally of law enforcement, and the trial's end could be the first significant flashpoint over race and policing in Biden's presidency.

Ahead of closing arguments in the case of the former Minneapolis police officer, Judge Peter Cahill issued detailed instructions to the jury. Chauvin faces three counts.

The former Minneapolis police officer faces manslaughter and murder charges in George Floyd's death. The prosecution and defense get one last chance to be heard before the jury begins deliberation.

Chauvin told Judge Peter Cahill that he would exercise his Fifth Amendment right. Closing arguments are expected to begin on Monday.

Judge Peter Cahill said the jury would be sequestered beginning next week when closing arguments are expected to start.

"A healthy person subjected to what Mr. Floyd was subjected to would have died," pulmonary specialist Dr. Martin Tobin told jurors on Thursday.

"To continue to apply that level of force to a person proned out, handcuffed behind their back – that in no way, shape or form is anything that is by policy," said Chief Medaria Arradondo.