We're not stupid': CNN's Van Jones accuses prosecutors of putting ex-cop Chauvin on path to 'exonera

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

4. It's a specific definition under Minnesota law.

The statute, Minn. Stat. § 609.195, says: "Whoever, without intent to effect the death of any person, causes the death of another by perpetrating an act eminently dangerous to others and evincing a depraved mind, without regard for human life, is guilty of murder in the third degree." They charged Chauvin with 3rd-degree murder because they believe they can prove the elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt; the video is strong evidence of a "depraved mind." On the other hand, first-degree murder requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt that he specifically intended, with premeditation, to kill Floyd. This is an extremely difficult burden of proof for the prosecution and it would almost certainly result in an acquittal. Cops are almost never convicted of first-degree murder, but another officer, Mohamed Noor, was convicted of third-degree murder by the same prosecutor two years ago. The probability of a conviction that carries a 25-year sentence is more important than the symbolic charge of first-degree murder that eventually fails, IMO.