Police officer charged with George Floyd's death freed from jail

7 October 2020, 18:13 | Updated: 7 October 2020, 19:02

The police officer accused of killing George Floyd has been freed from jail after posting $1million bail.

Derek Chauvin is facing charges of second and third-degree murder and manslaughter in connection with the death of Mr Floyd, who died on 25 May after Chauvin pressed his knee against his neck.

Chauvin, 44, was being Minnesota Correctional Facility-Oak Park Heights, where he was transferred a few days after his arrest over fears for his safety.

It is understood was released from custody this morning.

Mr Floyd's dying cries of "I can't breathe" were heard world-over as riots erupted in multiple cities across the US in protest against how black people are treated by police forces.

Chauvin denies all charges against him.

Last month, it was reported that lawyers for Chauvin and three other officers charged in Mr Floyd's death are seeking separate trials saying they would likely offer “antagonistic” defences and the evidence against one officer could negatively impact another.

Prosecutors told a judge that the men should face trial together because the evidence and charges against them are similar, and multiple trials could traumatise witnesses and Mr Floyd’s family.

Thomas Lane, J. Kueng and Tou Thao are charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder and manslaughter.

More to follow...