Twenty-Two and Five: Not Enough!

Kenneth R. Jenkins

Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm on Unsplash

Derek Chauvin will spend only 22.5 years in prison. Will this give the Floyd Family as Chauvin stated “peace of mind?” In Chauvin’s mind, he may think so, but as far as the Floyd family, it still leaves a pain in their hearts.

The judge’s decision was final but it should be more at least 25–30 years for murder. To a lot of people, that was a slap on the wrist and a gut punch to the family. Now, the family has to endure this decision learning how justice is not justice for all people especially the African-American community.

What about the lesson learned to other law enforcement? Will this change the way of training police officers now? And, will more and more citizens will be watchful of what they do? Perhaps in the age of technology, will there be more footage of police abuse will being taking then later shown on national news networks? And will police officers be mindful of the things they do?

Let’s be honest, this may or may not change much but more and more citizens are on the watch in the event cops like Chauvin will follow suite to break the law or follow the letter of the law and do their jobs.

Chauvin knew he was wrong to murder George Floyd now he has to pay for what he has done in 22.5 years of his life. It was not a lot of time but, enough to think about what he has done. Justice served.

Kenneth R. Jenkins is a freelance writer, poet, podcast host and producer, minister and devoted husband living in Savannah, Georgia.