Downtown Fortified Before the Chauvin Trial, February 2021

Razor wire and barriers surrounded the Hennepin County Government Center ahead of jury selection on March 8

February 2021 · 46 photographs

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Graffiti reading “Fuck Walz + Frey” and “No Line 3” on a Midtown Greenway wall in Minneapolis — February 3, 2021 — Graffiti on a concrete wall beneath a bridge along the Midtown Greenway in Minneapolis reads “Fuck Walz + Frey” and “No Line 3.” The text refers to opposition to the Line 3 pipeline project and criticism of Minnesota officials.

Community Building Is Revolutionary — February 4, 2021 — A bench at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis bears the inscription "Community building is revolutionary." This message reflects the spirit of the autonomous zone established in the summer of 2020 following the murder of George Floyd. 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.

I Cant Breathe George Floyd Memorial during ice storm — February 4, 2021 — The George Floyd Memorial, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street in Minneapolis, is a site of remembrance and protest. Following George Floyd's murder by police in May 2020, this area became a focal point for demonstrations against racial injustice and police brutality. The memorial features art, tributes, and the prominent phrase "I Can't Breathe," a reference to Floyd's final words.

Cup Foods at Chicago and 38th Street. — February 4, 2021 — Inside Cup Foods as seen from George Floyd Square. George Floyd was inside Cup Foods prior to his murder in May 2020.

Ice and snow at George Floyd Square — February 15, 2021 — A large mural of George Floyd's face is displayed at George Floyd Square in South Minneapolis during the winter of 2021. The square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street, became a focal point for protests and activism following Floyd's murder by police in May 2020. The area has since been transformed into a memorial and community space, marked by various artworks, signs, and tributes, including this mural. 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.

George Floyd Trial in 21 Days — February 15, 2021 — George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, is shown 21 days before the start of the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged in Floyd's death. The intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue became a focal point for protests and activism following Floyd's murder in May 2020. The area has been transformed into a memorial and a space for community gathering, marked by tributes and art. 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.

Metal fencing and concrete barriers surround Minneapolis City Hall's stone facade during preparations for the Derek Chauvin trial. — February 16, 2021 — Fencing and barricades begin going up around downtown locations with Derek Chauvin trial just 20 days away.

Snow-covered street lined with historic and modern buildings, security fencing, and barriers surrounding Minneapolis City Hall. — February 16, 2021 — Security fencing and concrete barriers surround Minneapolis City Hall and the Hennepin County Jail in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial.

Minneapolis City Hall and Hennepin County Government Center surrounded by security fencing and barricades in February 2021. — February 16, 2021 — Fencing and barricades surround Minneapolis City Hall and the Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis on February 16, 2021. These security measures were installed in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial, which began on March 8, 2021. 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.

Government Plaza station entrance in downtown Minneapolis with plywood barriers and Metro Transit platform signage. — February 17, 2021 — Government Plaza station in downtown Minneapolis serves Metro Transit Blue and Green Line trains. The platform signage directs riders toward St. Paul and the Mall of America. Plywood barriers were installed around parts of the station area in February 2021 during heightened security measures tied to the Derek Chauvin trial.

Hennepin County Government Center at 300 South 6th Street boarded with plywood panels during winter. — February 17, 2021 — The Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis was boarded up in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial in March 2021. The building, located at 300 South 6th Street, houses county government offices and courtrooms.

Snowstorm and Minneapolis City Hall prior to Chauvin trial — February 17, 2021 — Minneapolis City Hall and Hennepin County Government Center are seen under snowfall as security preparations are underway for the Derek Chauvin trial. This measure reflects the heightened security concerns surrounding the trial of the former police officer accused in the death of George Floyd, which occurred in Minneapolis.

A front-end loader removes concrete barriers from a snowy downtown Minneapolis street at night near City Hall during trial security preparations. — February 17, 2021 — Public Works vehicles install jersey barriers around government buildings in Minneapolis in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial. 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.

Hennepin County Government Center's ground-floor windows and entrances boarded with plywood during February 2021 security preparations. — February 17, 2021 — The Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis has plywood covering several ground-floor windows and entrances. The county courthouse complex was being secured in February 2021 ahead of the Derek Chauvin trial in the death of George Floyd. The building stands at 300 South 6th Street.

Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis, a brick and glass civic building at 300 South 6th Street. — February 17, 2021 — Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis houses county courts and administrative offices.

Midtown Corner rebuild after Minneapolis riots — February 18, 2021 — Construction continues on the Midtown Corner apartment building in Minneapolis during the winter of 2020. The six-story structure, located a block from the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct, was still under construction when it sustained damage during civil unrest in the summer of 2020.

Cub Foods grand opening after riots — February 18, 2021 — The Cub Foods store in South Minneapolis is shown here during its grand reopening after being damaged during the civil unrest following the death of George Floyd in May 2020. This grocery store, a vital community resource, is located a block from the Minneapolis Police Department's 3rd precinct station, which was a focal point of protests. The reopening signifies a step towards recovery and rebuilding for the neighborhood.

Wells Fargo after Minneapolis riots — February 18, 2021 — The Wells Fargo Bank branch on Nicollet Avenue in South Minneapolis shown on February 18, 2021 shows damage from fires that occurred during the unrest following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The building, located across from the Minneapolis Police Fifth Precinct, sustained significant damage, with boarded-up windows and evidence of burning along its lower facade. 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.

Shops Are Open sign on Lake Street February 2021 — February 18, 2021 — Shops on Lake Street in Minneapolis are shown with a OPEN sign on February 18, 2021 after significant damage sustained during civil unrest in the summer of 2020. The unrest followed the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, and led to widespread protests and property destruction across the city. 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.

Hennepin County Jail surrounded by temporary metal fencing and concrete barriers during February 2021 security preparations in downtown Minneapolis. — February 18, 2021 — Hennepin County Jail, Minneapolis. Temporary fencing and concrete barriers surround the jail complex in downtown Minneapolis during security preparations tied to the Derek Chauvin trial in February 2021. The jail stands next to the Hennepin County Government Center campus.

Hennepin County Government Center with overhead skyway and concrete barriers lining the street at night in downtown Minneapolis. — February 18, 2021 — Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis is surrounded by temporary fencing and concrete barriers. The county complex houses courts and county offices, and was under expanded security in early 2021 ahead of the Derek Chauvin trial. A skyway connects the Government Center to adjacent buildings above the secured street level.

Hennepin County Government Center entrance secured with orange traffic cones, concrete barriers, and chain-link fencing during trial security preparations in February 2021. — February 18, 2021 — Temporary security barricades are erected on February 18, 2021 around the Hennepin County Government Center at 300 South 6th Street in Minneapolis. These measures were put in place in anticipation of the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former police officer charged in the May 2020 murder of George Floyd. 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.

Historic Minneapolis City Hall stands behind security fencing and plywood boards during Derek Chauvin trial preparations in February 2021. — February 19, 2021 — Minneapolis City Hall and the Hennepin County Government Center are shown fortified with security fencing and boarded-up windows. This measure was implemented in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial in 2021, reflecting heightened security concerns surrounding the proceedings.

Minneapolis Police 5th Precinct in February 2021 — February 19, 2021 — The Minneapolis Police Fifth Precinct is shown on February 19, 2021 surrounded by security barriers. These barriers have been a consistent presence around the precinct since the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, reflecting the heightened security measures in place following widespread protests and civil unrest. 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.

Save the Boards protest on Lake Street in Minneapolis — February 21, 2021 — Protesters marched down Lake Street in Minneapolis on February 21, 2021, organized by Save The Boards to Memorialize the Movement and Visual Black Justice. The group demanded federal action to abolish the death penalty, reopen all police brutality cases, and defund or demilitarize police departments.

Remembering Malcolm X at George Floyd Square — February 21, 2021 — A gathering took place at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis to commemorate the anniversary of Malcolm X's assassination and discuss Black liberation movements. The event also coincided with the GFS Liberation Loppet, an event honoring explorer Matthew Henson, who is credited by some with being the first to reach the North Pole. The "Peoples Way" mural is visible on the building behind the attendees, a reference to the community's renaming of the intersection after George Floyd's murder. The "George Floyd Trial In 15 Days" sign on the Speedway gas station highlights the ongoing legal proceedings related to his death.

George Floyd Square and Malcolm X — February 21, 2021 — A young person places flowers on a memorial at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis on February 21, 2021. The square, established in the wake of George Floyd's murder in May 2020, has become a site of protest and remembrance. The gathering also honored Malcolm X, a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, and explorer Matthew Henson, who was part of the first expedition to reach the North Pole. The event, which included the GFS Liberation Loppet, served as a moment to reflect on Black liberation movements and historical figures. 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.

Barricaded streets around George Floyd Square — February 21, 2021 — Barricades remain at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, a space that became a focal point for protests following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street, was occupied by protesters for months, transforming it into a community hub and a symbol of the movement for racial justice.

Concrete barriers line a snowy downtown Minneapolis street at night near the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office during trial security preparations. — February 22, 2021 — Concrete barricaded shown on February 22, 2021 around the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office in downtown Minneapolis in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial. 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.

Hennepin County Jail surrounded by chain link security fencing and metal poles at night in downtown Minneapolis. — February 22, 2021 — Hennepin County Jail in downtown Minneapolis was surrounded by temporary security fencing in February 2021. Additional barriers were installed around government buildings in the area before the Derek Chauvin trial. The jail is part of the Hennepin County public safety and court complex.

Minneapolis Police Second Precinct Chauvin Security — February 23, 2021 — Security fencing and concrete barriers surround the Minneapolis Police 2nd Precinct in northeast Minneapolis on February 23, 2021. This measure was implemented in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial in 2021. The precinct building itself, constructed in 1911, has served as a law enforcement facility for over a century. The heightened security reflects the significant public attention and potential for unrest surrounding the trial, which followed the murder of George Floyd. 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.

Who's running for mayor newspaper — February 24, 2021 — A discarded newspaper, featuring an article about the Minneapolis mayoral race, lies in the snow outside the Hennepin County Government Center. The article, titled "Who's running for Mayor of Minneapolis?", highlights the candidates and the political landscape of the city.

Yellow security tape and chain-link fencing create a tunnel-like corridor outside Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis at night. — February 24, 2021 — Razor wire and concrete barriers form a secured corridor outside the Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis. The government center houses county courts and administrative offices. Temporary fencing and barricades were installed around the complex during security preparations in early 2021.

Razor wire fencing secures the Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis during trial security preparations in February 2021. — February 24, 2021 — Razor wire fencing is installed around the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This security measure was put in place in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial, which was scheduled to begin less than two weeks after this photograph was taken. The trial stemmed from the death of George Floyd, whose killing by Chauvin in May 2020 sparked widespread protests and unrest in Minneapolis and across the nation.

Yellow mesh security fencing and razor wire surround the Hennepin County Government Center during Derek Chauvin trial preparations in downtown Minneapolis. — February 24, 2021 — Security measures, including razor wire and concrete barriers, were erected around the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial. 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.

Hennepin County Juvenile Justice Center in downtown Minneapolis boarded with plywood panels during February 2021 trial security preparations. — February 24, 2021 — The Hennepin County Juvenile Justice Center in downtown Minneapolis is shown boarded up in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial in April 2021. The building, located at 590 Park Avenue, serves as a courthouse for juvenile legal proceedings. The extensive boarding and security measures were implemented in response to concerns about potential unrest and protests stemming from the trial, which followed the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

Barricades at the Hennepin County Public Safety Facility — February 24, 2021 — Security barricades and fencing surround the Hennepin County Public Safety Facility in Minneapolis on February 24, 2021 in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial. The extensive security measures, including concrete barriers and razor wire, were implemented to manage potential protests and ensure the safety of the courthouse and surrounding areas. 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.

Community Control of MPD — February 25, 2021 — A protester holds a sign reading "COMMUNITY CONTROL OF MPD" outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis on February 25, 2021. The protest was announced for March 8th, coinciding with the start of the Derek Chauvin trial. This event highlights ongoing calls for police reform and community oversight of law enforcement in Minneapolis, a movement that gained significant momentum following the murder of George Floyd in 2020. 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.

Michelle Gross speaks at Hennepin County Government Center — February 25, 2021 — Michelle Gross speaks to a crowd at the Hennepin County Government Center announcing plans to protest the start of the Derek Chauvin murder trial.

Michelle Gross speaks prior to Derek Chauvin Trial — February 25, 2021 — Michelle Gross speaks at a press conference outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis on February 25, 2021. Activists gathered to announce a protest planned for that day, demanding justice and change in the wake of the Derek Chauvin trial. The signs held by attendees called for the conviction of Chauvin and justice for George Floyd. 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.

Nekima Levy Armstrong at 2021 rally — February 25, 2021 — Nekima Levy Armstrong, a prominent activist, speaks at a press conference held outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Downtown Minneapolis on February 25, 2021. The conference announced a March 8th protest, with participants expressing their determination to demand justice and change despite perceived fortifications around government buildings. The signs held by attendees call for the conviction of Derek Chauvin and justice for George Floyd and other victims, reflecting the ongoing protests and calls for accountability following the murder of George Floyd. 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.

Workers installing security fencing at courthouse for Chauvin trial — February 26, 2021 — Temporary fencing is being installed around the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis, located at 300 South 6th Street. This security measure was put in place in anticipation of the trial of Derek Chauvin, a former Minneapolis police officer. 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.

Hennepin County Government Center Derek Chauvin Trial Security — February 28, 2021 — Temporary security fencing is erected around the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis on February 28, 2021, in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial. The installation of this fencing, part of Operation Safety Net, was a measure to secure the courthouse and manage potential public gatherings during the high-profile trial, which began jury selection on March 8, 2021. The courthouse complex, a significant piece of Brutalist architecture in downtown Minneapolis, was the site of the trial for the death of George Floyd, an event that sparked widespread protests and unrest. 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.

Reflections outside Minneapolis City Hall and Government Center — February 28, 2021 — Security fencing surrounds the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial. The trial, which began jury selection on March 8, 2021, followed the death of George Floyd and subsequent protests. The fencing, part of Operation Safety Net, was installed to secure the courthouse and surrounding areas during the high-profile legal proceedings. 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.

APX Perimeters fencing at Derek Chauvin murder trial — February 28, 2021 — Temporary fencing by APX Perimeters surrounds the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis, in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial. The installation of this security measure was part of Operation Safety Net, a multi-agency response to ensure public safety during the trial and potential unrest following the death of George Floyd. Jury selection was scheduled to begin on March 8, 2021, making the courthouse a focal point of national attention.

Derek Chauvin Razor Wire at Hennepin Courthouse — February 28, 2021 — Razor wire fencing, a security measure, surrounds the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis. This installation was part of Operation Safety Net, a multi-agency effort to provide security during the Derek Chauvin murder trial. The trial, which began with jury selection on March 8, 2021, followed the death of George Floyd and subsequent protests. 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.

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