Judge denies Derek Chauvin’s motion for new trial in George Floyd murder case

Hours before the sentencing for George Floyd’s murder, former Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin’s request for a new trial was denied by a Minnesota court, CNN reports. 

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Chauvin can face up to 30 years of prison time. The 45-year-old was convicted in April on charges of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for his role in Floyd’s death. He has been in a maximum-security prison since then. 

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Chauvin’s defense attorney, Eric Nelson filed a motion claiming the former police officer was deprived of his constitutional right to a fair trial. However, Judge Peter Cahill of the Hennepin County District said that Nelson had failed to prove any of the allegations.

Derek Chauvin’s guilty verdict came nearly a year after he kneeled on the neck and back of Floyd for more than nine minutes as the victim said he couldn’t breathe. Floyd died on the spot. His final moments captured on a cell phone by a 17-year-old.