MINNEAPOLIS – The Law enforcement and defense made their closing statements on Monday in the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin, who was charged on the death of George Floyd.
Now the 12 members of the jury are being confiscated while they are debating a verdict.
Chauvin is charged with second degree murder, third degree murder, and second degree manslaughter in Floyd’s death last feast day. If convicted of the gravest charges, Chauvin faces 12 1/2 years or 150 months in prison under the guidelines for a first-time convict. However, prosecutors argue that there are aggravating factors that require a longer prison term. That means chauvin may be sentenced for longer than what is stated in the guidelines.
The jury can convict Chauvin of any, all, or none of the charges.
Here’s what you should know about the jury’s deliberations:
What happened on monday
On Monday the jury heard final arguments, where the prosecution and the defense summarized the respective evidence and testimony They presented themselves during the process.
Judge Peter Cahill dismissed two of the 14 members of the jury, who were told they were substitutes and would not attend the deliberations. Cahill also briefed the jury on the laws they must obey during their deliberations.
The judges must decide whether or not the government has proven beyond doubt all elements of a particular charge. The defense has no burden of proof and Chauvin is presumed innocent unless convicted in court.
Attack or “sensible” policing? Findings from the final arguments of the Derek Chauvin process as the jury begins deliberations
What are jury consultations?
The jury usually retreats to a secure courtroom with a court marshal on guard outside. Although they have been together in court since the trial began in March, this is the first time they have been together to speak about the case and review all testimony and evidence.
you are may examine all exhibits that have been entered as evidence. You are allowed to study a specific testimony from each witness. The jurors can send written communications to the judge for any questions that may arise.
Who is on the jury? Here are the jurors who will decide whether Derek Chauvin is guilty of the murder in George Floyd’s death
What does it mean to confiscate the jury?
During the deliberations, the court will provide meals to the jury and prepare them for the night in a hotel where the marshals will ensure safety. The jury is not allowed to discuss the case with others, or even with each other, when they are outside of the deliberations room.
Does the jury have to be unanimous?
For a guilty verdict, yes. If juries are unable to pass judgment on a particular charge, they will report it to Cahill. The judges usually instruct the jurors to keep trying and to listen carefully to each other’s arguments and opinions.
What happens if the jury cannot reach a unanimous decision?
If disagreements persist, the judge can declare a mistrial on one or more charges. The prosecution, in this case the Minnesota attorney general, would then regroup and decide whether to retry chauvin.
How long will it be before a judgment is reached?
Each process is different, making it difficult to accurately predict the length of the deliberations of the jury. Seasoned law enforcement officials told the US TODAY that Minnesota juries have usually passed judgments within days, especially if they are seized.
Last week, Cahill told the jury, “If I were you, I’d plan long (deliberations) and hope for short ones.” Earlier this week he told them to “pack a bag” when they returned to court the following week.
