DA Krasner Statement on Sentencing of Former Officer Derek Chauvin for Murder of George Floyd

CONTACT:
Jane Roh, 215–686–8711, Jane.Roh@phila.gov

PHILADELPHIA (June 25, 2021) — Following is a statement from District Attorney Larry Krasner on the sentencing today of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin to 22.5 years in prison for the murder of George Floyd in 2020:

“It’s always hard to find a number that looks like accountability for a terrible crime and all the damage it has caused. But former police officer Derek Chauvin’s sentence of 22.5 years is a sentence that is at least respectful of the magnitude of this murder, the heinous quality of his slow death by torture, and the abuse of his authority on behalf of the state. Under Minnesota law, Chauvin will have no opportunity for parole until he has served at least 15 years in custody. He may serve far more time.

“Like all incarcerated people convicted of even the most offensive crimes, Derek Chauvin will have time for reflection and to express the real remorse he owes George Floyd’s survivors, to change in ways he owes those survivors and society. All of law enforcement, including my office, must do better for our Black and brown and poor and marginalized communities, starting right now.”

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The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office is the largest prosecutor’s office in Pennsylvania, and one of the largest in the nation. It serves the more than 1.5 million residents of the City and County of Philadelphia, employing 600 lawyers, detectives, and support staff. The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for prosecution of approximately 40,000 criminal cases annually.