In a solemn courtroom proceeding, Tou Thao, the last former Minneapolis police officer convicted in state court for his involvement in the killing of George Floyd, faced sentencing. The 4-year and 9-month sentence was delivered without Thao showing any remorse or acknowledging any culpability in the tragic incident that shook the world on May 25, 2020.

During his trial, Thao claimed he acted as a mere “human traffic cone” while former Officer Derek Chauvin pressed his knee on Floyd’s neck, causing his death. Despite global protests and a critical evaluation of police brutality and racial injustice, Thao stood by his assertion, refusing to accept any responsibility for Floyd’s demise.

Judge Peter Cahill expressed his disappointment with Thao’s lack of remorse during the sentencing. While Thao’s attorney sought a 41-month sentence, the court settled on 57 months, the higher end of the state guidelines. Additionally, Thao will serve his state sentence concurrently with a 3 1/2-year sentence for a separate conviction on a federal civil rights charge.

The court proceeding offered insights into the complicated relationship between the former officers and Floyd’s tragic fate. Thao’s actions contributed to Floyd’s death by enabling his restraint and discouraging others from providing medical aid, even when the situation demanded it. The court found Thao’s actions to be unreasonable and highlighted his failure to intervene as a trained police officer.

Throughout the hearing, Floyd’s final words, “I can’t breathe,” reverberated, reminding everyone present of the profound impact his death had on the world. Assistant Attorney General Erin Eldridge emphasized the significance of holding Thao accountable for his role in the incident, as he stood by and allowed it to unfold.

As the cases stemming from Floyd’s murder come to a close, legal teams are grappling with the complexities of justice and responsibility. The courtroom, once filled with Floyd’s family members, now saw mostly journalists and a few friends or relatives of Thao.

Despite the conclusion of the legal proceedings, the impact of Floyd’s death lingers. Thao’s sentencing raises questions about accountability within law enforcement and the responsibility of officers to intervene when necessary. As the legal battles end, the nation continues to reflect on the systemic changes needed to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The sentencing of Thao, along with his fellow officers, sends a crucial message about the need for police accountability and highlights the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. As Floyd’s family grieves in private, the nation watches and waits for further developments, hoping that the legacy of George Floyd will lead to lasting change in the fight against police brutality and systemic racism.