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Four cops charged in Floyd death, one faces 2nd-degree murder count homicide

Four cops charged in Floyd death, one faces 2nd-degree murder count homicide

Minneapolis police officer

The Minneapolis police officer who kneeled on the neck of a black man who later died will now be charged with second-degree murder, and his three colleagues will also face charges, Senator Amy Klobuchar said Wednesday.

In Pics: George Floyd's final words seen across skies in the US cities

The May 25 death of George Floyd -- who had been accused of trying to buy cigarettes with a counterfeit bill -- has ignited protests across the United States over systemic racism and police brutality.

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"Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is increasing charges against Derek Chauvin to 2nd degree in George Floyd's murder and also charging other 3 officers," Klobuchar tweeted.

"This is another important step for justice."

Chauvin was charged last week with third-degree murder, which is roughly akin to manslaughter. A charge of second-degree murder does not suggest premeditation but carries stiffer penalties.