MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Supreme Court has declined to hear arguments from Derek Chauvin's defense to overturn an appeals court ruling last week that said a third-degree murder charge against Chauvin was improperly dismissed by Judge Peter Cahill.
Chauvin is charged with second-degree murder and manslaughter charges in connection with the May 2020 death of George Floyd. A video from a bystander was widely shared on social media and showed Floyd repeatedly say he couldn't breath as officers wrestled with him and Chauvin presses a knee to his neck.
The decision not to get involved means the appeals court decision stands, and allows prosecutors to revive their efforts to add the third-degree murder charge.
The last-minute legal battle delayed jury selection Monday. Judge Cahill decided Tuesday to go ahead with proceedings unless there was a ruling to stop them.
Meanwhile, in court, five jurors were selected in the first two days of jury selection for the trial. Another nine are needed, to allow for two alternates.
Dozens of potential jurors have been dismissed so far, including some who said they would not be able to set aside their views about the case and their strong feelings about Floyd's death.
Potential jurors are being asked if they have seen the video of Floyd or any images from it, and what their feelings are about the situation.
Of the five selected at this time, three are white men, there is one Black man and one woman who is described as a person of color. Their identity is being protected during the case.
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 at CourtTV.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.
