Judge Allows Derek Chauvin to Examine George Floyd's Heart Tissue in Appeal Effort

The ruling, contested by federal prosecutors, could provide new evidence regarding Floyd's cause of death as Chauvin seeks to overturn his conviction.

U.S. District Court Judge Paul Magnuson approved Derek Chauvin's request to examine George Floyd's heart tissue, bodily fluids, and related autopsy materials as part of his appeal process.
Chauvin's legal team argues that Floyd's death may have been caused by heart failure exacerbated by drugs and pre-existing conditions, rather than Chauvin's actions during the arrest.
Federal prosecutors have filed a motion to reverse the ruling, claiming the request is based on unverified medical theories already dismissed during Chauvin's trial.
Chauvin's appeal also alleges ineffective legal representation in his original trial, including the failure to explore alternative medical explanations for Floyd's death.
The case has drawn renewed attention, with Chauvin's legal team asserting that access to this evidence is critical for a fair appeal process.