What the prosecution and the defense are expected to argue at Derek Chauvin's trial
The prosecution will argue Derek Chauvin’s restraint of George Floyd for nearly nine minutes was a “substantial” cause of his loss of consciousness and, ultimately, death in police custody.
In an amended complaint, prosecutors with the office of Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison state that the medical examiner listed Floyd’s cause of death as cardiopulmonary arrest “complicating law enforcement subdual, restraint and neck compression” and that the manner of death was ruled a homicide.
The defense will try to sow doubt in the prosecution’s claims by offering up evidence that suggests Floyd could have died from his health maladies and use of drugs.
In a motion to dismiss the charges, the defense argued Chauvin did not assault Floyd and did not have intent to harm him.