US police officer Derek Chauvin accused of murdering unarmed black man George Floyd in the city of Minneapolis earlier in the week was charged on Friday with third-degree murder and manslaughter. On Monday, Chauvin was seen in an explosive video pressing his knee to the neck of handcuffed Floyd for at least five minutes. The victim can be seen writhing in pain and pleading: "I can't breathe." The 46-year-old died the same day. Chauvin's arrest came after a third night of arson, looting and vandalism gripped the city as protesters vented rage over Floyd's death. Just an hour after his arrest, Chauvin was charged by Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman. Freeman later told a news conference that it was "by far the fastest we've ever charged a police officer." He said he "anticipates charges" for the three other officers but would not offer more details. Police body camera footage, witness statements and a preliminary medical examination of Floyd were among the evidence prosecutors have gathered, Freeman said. Third-degree murder carries a sentence of up to 25 years in prison. It is defined in the state's criminal statute as applicable to "whoever, without intent to effect the death of any person, causes the death of another by perpetrating an act eminently dangerous to others and evincing a depraved mind, without regard for human life." — Agencies
