Minneapolis: Barriers installed near Government Center for Chauvin trial

Public Works vehicles install jersey barriers around government buildings in Minneapolis in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial. The installation occurred during snowy conditions, highlighting the urgency of preparing for potential public gatherings and protests related to the trial. The barriers served to secure the area and manage access to the courthouse and surrounding municipal buildings. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

Photo taken in February 2021.