By Canadian Press

Minnesota attorney general to assist in George Floyd case

May 31, 2020 | 4:47 PM

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota prosecutor who charged a police officer with murder in the death of George Floyd said Sunday that he asked the state’s attorney general to assist in the case.

Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman announced that he asked Attorney General Keith Ellison to assist in cases arising from the death of Floyd, who died after Minneapolis Officer Derek Chauvin pressed his knee onto Floyd’s neck while Floyd pleaded with him, saying he couldn’t breathe.

“There have been recent developments in the facts of the case where the help and expertise of the Attorney General would be valuable,” Freeman said. He did not elaborate.

In his statement, Freeman said Ellison has agreed to be a full partner in the case going forward.

Chauvin, 44, was charged Friday with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in the May 25 death of Floyd.

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Activists, some elected officials, and the Minnesota chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union have been asking for Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to appoint a special prosecutor, saying there is a history of mistrust between Freeman’s office and members of the community.

Over 100 people gathered outside the home of Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman on Sunday. Protesters had a variety of demands, including arresting all four police officers involved in Floyd’s death, appointing an independent special council to prosecute the killing and the resignation of Freeman.

Chauvin and the three other officers were fired last week.

Amy Forliti, The Associated Press