US: Protests possible in several cities on June 25 following sentencing of former police officer convicted in controversial criminal case

Event

Protests are possible in response to a scheduled sentencing hearing in the case of Derek Chauvin, the former police officer convicted of unintentional second-degree murder, as well as two lesser charges, for his role in the death of George Floyd. The hearing will be held during the afternoon of June 25 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Protests are especially likely should Chauvin receive a sentence that activist groups consider to be overly lenient, though some demonstrations may occur regardless of the ruling.

Protests are particularly likely in cities that saw significant unrest in response to Floyd's death in 2020, including Minneapolis, Minnesota; Portland, Oregon; Seattle, Washington; Atlanta, Georgia; Oakland, California; Los Angeles, California; New York, New York; Chicago, Illinois; and the District of Columbia.

Police will likely increase their presence in central areas in these cities in anticipation of any public backlash to the sentence announcement. Any protests that do occur will likely cause localized transport and business disruptions. While most demonstrations are likely to remain largely peaceful, clashes between demonstrators and police cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Heed the instructions of security personnel. Plan accordingly for potential transport disruptions in cities where demonstrations are most likely.