George Floyd family demands justice ahead of trial

(FASTNEWS |  UNITED STATES ) – The trial of Derek Chauvin, the white American policeman accused of killing George Floyd in May last year, is due to begin later on Monday.

Mr Chauvin was recorded by passers-by in the city of Minneapolis kneeling on the neck of Mr Floyd, who was black, for more than nine minutes.

The incident sparked protests in the US and across the world against police brutality and racism.

Mr Chauvin, 45, is one of four officers involved to stand trial.

He is facing the most serious charges of the four, including second-degree murder, which carries a sentence of up to 40 years in prison. Mr Chauvin, who was fired from the police, has pleaded not guilty.

Family and friends of George Floyd held a vigil and prayer service in Minneapolis ahead of the trial.

“We are [a] God-fearing family, we [are] church people. So, therefore, I’m just going to end it on this – we’re asking the system for the justice,” his brother Terrence said.

Another of his brothers, Philonise Floyd, told reporters on Sunday: “I have a big hole right now in my heart. It can’t be patched up… I need justice for George. We need a conviction.”