Former Minneapolis officer Thomas Lane pleads guilty to manslaughter in George Floyd's death
CBSNov 28, 2021
Former Minneapolis Cop Pleads Guilty In George Floyd Murder
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Image copyright: AP [via New York Post]
The Facts
Thomas Lane, an ex-Minneapolis police officer involved in George Floyd's death, pleaded guilty on Wed. to a state charge of aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter.
His lawyers and prosecutors jointly recommended a three-year prison sentence. He's scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 21.
The Spin
Left narrative
Although, this won't bring Floyd back, it's an important step towards healing the nation and bringing closure to his family. Lane's guilty plea may help bring a new understanding of the lack of officer accountability that has enabled police violence against civilians and fueled racial unrest.
Right narrative
Though Floyd's death was an avoidable tragedy, Lane's actions weren't necessarily criminal. He was a rookie who tried to take charge in a crisis but was dismissed by his superior, and now has to pay the price for someone else's actions.
