US prosecutors seek tough sentences for George Floyd cops

Prosecutors are seeking stiffer-than-usual sentences for four former US policemen charged over the killing of George Floyd.

Derek Chauvin, accused of murdering George Floyd.

Prosecutors are seeking stiffer-than-usual sentences for four former US policemen charged over the killing of George Floyd, arguing that they showed “particular cruelty” to the handcuffed African-American.

The 46-year-old resident of Minneapolis, Minnesota, died in May after being pinned to the pavement under the knee of white officer Derek Chauvin as Floyd gasped that he could not breathe.

A protestor holds a picture of George Floyd during a demonstration on August 17 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Picture: AFP

Court papers indicate that the Minnesota Attorney-General’s office will argue there were several aggravating factors — including that Mr Chauvin knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes as bystanders pleaded for his life and then watched him die.

Mr Chauvin inflicted “particular cruelty”, as well as “gratuitous pain” as he abused his position of authority, prosecutors allege.

Three or more suspects “actively participated” in the killing, prosecutors noted, saying this would justify longer sentences.

Conviction in Minnesota for second-degree unintentional murder and third-degree murder usually carries sentences of up to 12 years. The maximum for second-degree murder is 40 years in prison.