The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #168020   Message #4102948
Posted By: Steve Shaw
21-Apr-21 - 10:32 AM
Thread Name: BS: Black Lives Matter - change on the way?
Subject: RE: BS: Black Lives Matter - change on the way?
You deleted my post which corrected an inaccuracy in a polite manner, then perpetuate the same inaccuracy yourself. This is not my opinion, so let me quote from Star Tribune:

Chauvin faces three charges: second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. Here's what you need to know about the charges and what prosecutors must prove in order to convict Chauvin.

What is second-degree unintentional murder?
For a conviction of second-degree unintentional murder, the state's prosecutors must show beyond a reasonable doubt that Chauvin caused Floyd's death while assaulting him. This is the most serious charge and carries a presumed sentence in this case of 12 1/2 years, according to state sentencing guidelines. However, prosecutors have said they plan to seek an aggravated sentence for Chauvin above recommended guidelines because of the "particular cruelty" shown to Floyd.

What will not be an issue: whether Chauvin intended to kill Floyd. None of the charges require prosecutors to prove the former officer was trying to kill him.


We've had several visceral reactions in this thread to the horror perpetrated by Chauvin. It could be that I share those reactions myself but I have simply stated what the court's remit was - and what it wasn't. There are plenty of sources which will corroborate my assertion that the intention to kill was not tested in the court, not even apropos of the most serious of the three charges. Please check them out.