Tou Thao, the last of the former Minneapolis police officers involved in the tragic killing of George Floyd, has been sentenced to 4 years and 9 months in prison. Thao, however, continues to deny any wrongdoing, claiming that he was just a “human traffic cone” at the scene. Despite his denial, a bystander video clearly captured Floyd’s distress and the officer’s actions.
During the sentencing hearing, Thao spoke about his personal growth as a Christian during his time behind bars, expressing distress over Floyd’s death. He maintained his innocence, refusing to be associated with any wrongdoing. However, Judge Peter Cahill expressed disappointment at the lack of remorse from Thao, hoping for more than just preaching.
Thao’s attorney announced that they will be appealing the sentence but declined to provide further comment. Assistant Attorney General Erin Eldridge emphasized the impact of Floyd’s final words, which resonated globally. She argued that Thao stood by and allowed the tragic event to unfold, preventing others from providing necessary aid to Floyd.
The killing of George Floyd sparked widespread protests and brought attention to issues of police brutality and racism. Thao was found guilty of aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter, with the judge determining that his actions were objectively unreasonable and in violation of his duty to intervene and render aid.
Thao had rejected a plea bargain and instead agreed to have the court decide his case based on evidence from former officer Derek Chauvin’s murder trial and the upcoming federal civil rights trial involving Thao and two other former officers. All three officers were ultimately convicted in the federal trial.
In addition to his state sentence, Thao also faces a separate 3 1/2-year sentence on a federal civil rights charge. His sentence will be served concurrently, with credit for time served. The prison term will begin in a federal prison before he is transferred to a Minnesota prison to complete his sentence.
This case highlights the need for accountability and justice in cases involving police misconduct. The sentencing of Tou Thao serves as a reminder of the consequences faced by those who fail to intervene and uphold their duty to protect and serve.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
