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For the first time in nearly three weeks of testimony, the former officer Derek Chauvin spoke in the courtroom. Nearing the end of the defense’s case, Mr. Chauvin’s lawyer, Eric J. Nelson, asked Mr. Chauvin whether he would like to testify in his own defense.
Mr. Nelson said he and Mr. Chauvin have had repeated conversations on the matter, including a “lengthy meeting” Wednesday night. Mr. Chauvin, who removed his mask to answer Mr. Nelson’s questions, chose to waive his right to testify.
“I will invoke my Fifth Amendment privilege today,” he said.
Judge Peter A. Cahill also described to Mr. Chauvin the instructions that he would give the jury before they begin deliberations. The judge will instruct jurors that Mr. Chauvin has a right not to testify and they cannot hold Mr. Chauvin’s decision not to testify against him.
Mr. Chauvin, 45, faces second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter charges in the death of George Floyd.
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