Derek Chauvin’s attorney files motion for new trial
May 4, 2021, 5:01 PM | Updated: Aug 13, 2024, 12:52 pm

An attorney for Derek Chauvin filed a motion for a new trial on Tuesday. Photo: Minnesota Department of Corrections
(CNN) — An attorney for Derek Chauvin filed a motion for a new trial on Tuesday.
The former Minneapolis police officer was convicted on April 20 of second degree unintentional murder, second degree manslaughter and third degree murder in the death of George Floyd.
The motion, filed by attorney Eric Nelson, cites factors including “the interests of justice; abuse of discretion that deprived the Defendant of a fair trial; prosecutorial and jury misconduct; errors of law at trial; and a verdict that is contrary to law.”
Those include allegations of errors made by the judge, prosecutorial misconduct, witness intimidation and the impact of publicity.
“The publicity here was so pervasive and so prejudicial before and during this trial that it amounted to a structural defect in the proceedings,” Nelson wrote.
The court also “abused its discretion” in not granting a change of venue or sequestering the jury, Nelson wrote.
Nelson also wrote the prosecutors committed misconduct “including but not limited to: disparaging the Defense; improper vouching; and failing to adequately prepare its witnesses.”
As Derek Chauvin’s attorney files a motion for a new trial, citing various alleged misconducts and procedural errors, the legal proceedings continue to unfold with significant public interest. This high-profile case highlights the complexities of the justice system and the ongoing debates surrounding it. Similarly, in the world of sports, the UFC has seen its own share of dramatic moments, with the top five fight purses of 2021 showcasing the financial rewards and intense competition within the sport. Just as Chauvin’s trial draws attention to legal intricacies, the UFC captivates audiences with its thrilling bouts and substantial prize money, reflecting the diverse arenas where high stakes and public scrutiny intersect.
This is a developing story.
The-CNN-Wire
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