Tou Thao Sentenced in George Floyd’s Killing
In a significant development for Minneapolis and beyond, former police officer Tou Thao received a state sentence of four years and nine months for his role in the killing of George Floyd. This sentencing marks the final state-level conviction in the tragic May 2020 incident that ignited protests and a global reckoning on police accountability.
The Final State Sentencing
On August 7, 2023, Hennepin County District Judge Peter Cahill handed down the sentence to Tou Thao. Thao was found guilty in May of aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter, a charge stemming from his actions—or inaction—during the fatal restraint of George Floyd. Instead of intervening, Thao notably held back a concerned crowd of bystanders while Derek Chauvin knelt on Floyd’s neck for over nine minutes.
Judge Cahill emphasized that Thao’s actions were “far more than merely passive,” highlighting his direct engagement in preventing intervention by citizens. The sentence, which totals 57 months, will run concurrently with a previously imposed federal sentence of 3½ years for violating Floyd’s civil rights.
Thao’s Role and Defense
During the incident, Thao stood guard, creating a perimeter that kept bystanders from approaching and potentially aiding Mr. Floyd. His defense maintained that he was primarily focused on crowd control and was unaware of the gravity of Floyd’s deteriorating condition. However, prosecutors and the court determined that as a trained officer, Thao had a duty to intervene and failed to do so, directly contributing to the unlawful death.
Context of the George Floyd Case
The death of George Floyd under the knee of then-officer Derek Chauvin on May 25, 2020, sparked outrage and massive demonstrations worldwide. The incident put Minneapolis at the center of a national conversation about police brutality, racial injustice, and the need for systemic reform. Thao was one of four officers involved, with all now having faced convictions at either state or federal levels, or both.
Comparing Officer Sentences
The legal processes for all officers involved have been complex, spanning both state and federal courts. Here’s a brief overview of the sentences received by the four former officers:
| Officer | State Sentence | Federal Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Derek Chauvin | 22.5 years (murder) | 21 years (civil rights) |
| Tou Thao | 4 years, 9 months (aiding/abetting manslaughter) | 3 years, 6 months (civil rights) |
| J. Alexander Kueng | 3 years, 6 months (aiding/abetting manslaughter) | 3 years (civil rights) |
| Thomas Lane | 3 years, 6 months (aiding/abetting manslaughter) | 2 years, 6 months (civil rights) |
Implications for Minneapolis
For Minneapolis residents, Thao’s sentencing brings a degree of closure to a painful chapter, albeit one that continues to resonate. It reinforces the pursuit of accountability for law enforcement actions and stands as a testament to the community’s persistent demand for justice. While the legal proceedings conclude, the city continues to grapple with the legacy of Floyd’s death, navigating ongoing discussions around police reform, community trust, and racial equity initiatives.
What to Watch Next
While the state-level convictions are complete, the conversation around police conduct and justice reform is far from over in Minneapolis. Community groups and city leadership continue to work towards implementing changes in policing policies and fostering better relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Any potential appeals from Thao’s legal team would be the next judicial development, though the immediate legal processes for all officers are largely concluded.
FAQs About the Tou Thao Sentencing
- What was Tou Thao sentenced for?
Tou Thao was sentenced for aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter in the killing of George Floyd. - How long is Tou Thao’s state sentence?
His state sentence is four years and nine months (57 months). - Does this state sentence run concurrently with his federal sentence?
Yes, Judge Cahill ordered the state sentence to run concurrently with his previously imposed federal sentence of 3½ years for violating George Floyd’s civil rights. - What was Tou Thao’s specific role in the incident?
Thao was primarily responsible for holding back concerned bystanders who were attempting to intervene and offer aid to George Floyd. - Are there any other officers yet to be sentenced in this case?
No, with Thao’s sentencing, all four former officers involved in George Floyd’s death have now been sentenced in state court, in addition to their federal convictions.
The conclusion of this state legal chapter offers Minneapolis a moment for reflection and an opportunity to continue building a community rooted in justice and mutual respect. The path to healing and reform remains ongoing, but this milestone marks a significant step forward.
Tou Thao Sentenced in George Floyd Killing
