On Friday, a judge made it clear that media access wouldn’t be allowed in court for the pre-trial hearing of all four officers involved in the death of George Floyd. While the defendants have no problem with the cameras, it is said that the prosecution actually does. Subsequently, causing no audio or video recordings to be allowed, during the pre-trial hearing.
The district attorney stated that media would be a hindrance, if allowed at the pre-trial hearing.
“Cameras could alter the way the lawyers present evidence,cameras in the courtroom could subject; the participants in the trial to heightened media scrutiny and thereby be distracting to conducting the trial. Cameras may be intimidating to witnesses and impair their ability and willingness to testify; which may impact the jurors decision-making,” he said.
Attorneys representing the accused says a public trial is a good thing for the defendants and prefer the media to attend the pre-trial hearing.
Defendants Seek Coverage of the Pre-Trial Hearing
“The State’s conduct has made a fair and unbiased trial extremely unlikely; and the Defendants seek video and audio coverage to let a cleansing light shine on these proceedings. Doing otherwise allows these public officials to geld the Constitution,”; wrote lawyer Thomas Plunkett, who represents former officer J. Alexander Kueng, who is charged with aiding and abetting Floyd’s killing last month.”
The unfortunate death of George Floyd sparked protests all over the world that took place in every state and reportedly 18 countries. Not only were protests happening, companies started to recognize Juneteenth. Police reform bills, in the name of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor have even been passed.
All four officers are awaiting trial for the murder of George Floyd; Black man who died while in police custody.
Ellison also said Derek Chauvin, the officer who knelt on George for nearly nine minutes; will now be charged with second-degree murder. The three other officers were charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder.
