George Floyd’s death in 2020 sparked intense debate over the role of police restraint and medical evidence. Two autopsies were conducted: one by Hennepin County and another by independent pathologists hired by Floyd’s family. The Hennepin County report listed the cause of death as “cardiopulmonary arrest complicating law enforcement subdual, restraint, and neck compression,” while the family’s autopsy concluded Floyd died from “asphyxiation due to neck and back compression.” Despite differing terminology, forensic experts clarified both pointed to police restraint as the primary factor.
Bodycam footage showed Officer Derek Chauvin using a restraint technique taught by the Minneapolis Police Department. The county medical examiner, Dr. Andrew Baker, testified that Floyd’s heart condition and drug use were contributing factors but emphasized the restraint led to his death. Critics argue the media downplayed the role of Floyd’s health and fentanyl levels, which were cited in the county report.
Ben Shapiro’s docuseries highlights claims that Chauvin’s knee was on Floyd’s shoulder blade, not his neck, and stresses department-approved training. Proponents of a Chauvin pardon argue the initial trial overlooked key details, such as hostile bystanders distracting officers and protocols allowing prone restraint until a scene is secure. They also question the validity of “excited delirium” as a defense, though the Hennepin County autopsy found no traumatic injuries to Floyd’s neck.
The push for a pardon focuses on Chauvin’s federal conviction, with supporters alleging political pressure influenced the jury. However, the medical consensus remains that Floyd’s death was a homicide caused by police restraint. The debate underscores tensions between legal interpretations of force and public perceptions of justice.
Floyd’s case continues to polarize, with conservatives emphasizing procedural fairness and liberals highlighting systemic racism. As calls for Chauvin’s pardon gain momentum, the clash between legal technicalities and moral outrage persists, shaping broader conversations about policing in America.
