Closing arguments in Derek Chauvin trial set to begin Monday
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Updated: 11:18 AM PDT Apr 15, 2021
By AMY FORLITI, STEVE KARNOWSKI and TAMMY WEBBER, Associated Press
Closing arguments in Derek Chauvin trial set to begin Monday
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Updated: 11:18 AM PDT Apr 15, 2021
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you understand that you have 1/5 Amendment privilege to remain silent. Do you understand that? Yes. You understand that if you choose to exercise that right to remain silent, neither the state nor the court can comment on your silence as a sign or an indication of your guilt, meaning they can't say he didn't get up and defend himself. So equate your silence with guilt. You understand that? Yes. All right. Now, you also understand that you can waive that right and testifying. You understand that? Yes, I do you understand that if you chose not to testify or if you did in fact testify, you would be subject to cross examination by the state of Minnesota. Yes. You understand that if you uh were cross examined by the State, we could not attempt to limit the scope of your testimony. The state would be given broad latitude to ask you questions. You understand that we've had this conversation repeatedly, correct, correct. I have repeatedly advised you that this is your decision and your decision alone. Right, correct. Um I have advised you, uh and we have gone back and forth on the matter would be kind of an understatement, right. Yes, it is. Um but after a lengthy meeting last night we had some further discussion agreed, correct. And have you made a decision today whether you intend to testify or whether you intend to invoke your Fifth Amendment privilege? Uh I will invoke my 5th amendment privilege today. Do you have any questions about your right to remain silent or to testify on your own behalf? Not at this time, I don't. All right. Has anyone uh promise anything or threatened you in any way to keep you from testifying? No promises or threats your honor. Do you feel that your decision not to testify as a voluntary one on your behalf? Yes, it is.