Judge dismisses third-degree murder charge against Derek Chauvin in the police killing of George Floyd, second degree charges still remain

On Thursday, a Hennepin County judge dismissed the charge against Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer captured on video pressing his knee against Floyd’s neck.

The former police officer still faces charges of second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for the May 25 death of Floyd, which sparked nationwide protests over police brutality this summer.

Differences:

3rd-degree: when killing is “eminently dangerous to others and evincing a depraved mind.” You could face up to 25 years in prison if convicted.

2nd-degree: causing death without intent while inflicting bodily harm on victim. You can face up to 40 years in prison if convicted.