Verdict Reached In Chauvin Trial: Ohio Prepares, Leaders React

MINNESOTA — Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty of murder on Tuesday, a jury announced.

Chauvin faced third-degree murder, second-degree manslaughter, and second-degree unintentional murder charges in George Floyd's death. Video of Floyd's death prompted national unrest in May 2020.

"Our system of justice worked. The jury members listened to both sides, weighed the evidence, and came to this verdict," Gov. Mike DeWine said. "As we go forward as a nation, we must learn from the tragic death of George Floyd."

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost celebrated the verdict, calling it a triumph for justice.

"What Derek Chauvin did to George Floyd is murder. He killed more than a man—he nearly killed the hope of justice. The jury called it murder, and restored that hope," he said. "Chauvin dishonored his badge and a noble profession. That should weigh heavily in his sentencing hearing.”

State Rep. Emilia Sykes, the House minority leader, said the verdict is a step forward, but more needs to be done.

"While today is a tremendous step, we know this isn’t the end of oppression, racism and injustice in America. Far from it. But it is my hope that today’s verdict can serve as a turning point in the movement to dismantle racist systems, hold those sworn to protect us to a higher standard, and move us a step closer to building a more perfect Union where Black lives truly matter," she said.

The ACLU of Ohio celebrate the verdict, but called for systemic reform to policing in America.

"True justice for George Floyd means renewing our conviction to create a world where police do not have the opportunity to use violence to target Black people," the group said on Twitter.

Ohio leaders began preparation for the outcome of the trial long before a verdict was issued, even lending law enforcement to Minnesota.

A contingent of 100 Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers were sent to Minnesota this week, at the request of Minnesota Gov. Tim Waltz, to help state law enforcement maintain peace in the days following the trial. It's unclear how long Ohio troopers will remain in Minnesota.

Leaders of Ohio's largest cities are preparing for potential protests and violence in their towns.

Cleveland city officials are prepared for any unrest that breaks out locally, Mayor Frank Jackson said Tuesday. Jackson indicated he would not hesitate to request aid from the Ohio National Guard or suburban law enforcement.

Read more: Jury Finds Derek Chauvin Guilty On All Counts

Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams said his department learned from last year's protests and would be prepared for any activity this week.

"People can rest assured the May 30 [protests] were an aberration," Williams said. "I don't want to say it can't happen again, but we are prepared for anything and everything that could happen."

Gov. Mike DeWine confirmed Monday that Columbus leaders and his administration were keeping a "close eye" on the Chauvin trial and were prepared for any unrest at the Ohio Statehouse, in Columbus or around the state.

Floyd died May 25, 2020 in Minneapolis. Officers were sent to investigate a "forgery in progress" and arrested Floyd. He was in police custody at the time of his death, and video of his arrest shows Chauvin kneeling on Floyd's neck for nearly 9 minutes. All four officers who were at the scene, including Chauvin, were fired the next day, and have since been criminally charged.

Floyd's death and video of his dying moments sparked protests across the nation. Cleveland, Columbus and Akron all saw clashes between protesters and police, and destruction of public and private property.

"Whether it's a peaceful protest or whether things go left of center — we're prepared for anything and everything," Williams said.