George Floyd's Family Will Receive $27 Million Settlement From Previous Civil Rights Lawsuit

George Floyd's family will reportedly receive $27 million following the civil rights lawsuit that was filed last July. The Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously to approve the settlement.

The Minneapolis City Council has settled a lawsuit filed by the family of George Floyd, the Floyd family will reportedly receive $27 million. 

The New York Times reports the City Council voted unanimously to approve the settlement, a spokeswoman for the city said Mayor Jacob Frey would sign the measure. 

George Floyd’s death became nationally known due to the violent nature of the incident. On Friday, Derek Chauvin, the former cop who was arrested for kneeling on Floyd’s neck is reportedly awaiting the selection of 12 jurors for his trial. He’s been charged with second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter.  

Rodney Floyd, one brother of George Floyd released the following statement: 

“This agreement is a necessary step for all of us to begin to get some closure. George’s legacy for those who loved him will always be his spirit of optimism that things can get better, and we hope this agreement does just that — that it makes things a little better in Minneapolis and holds up a light for communities around the country.”

Benjamin Crump and additional attorneys representing the Floyd family are slated to hold a press conference on Friday. “The city needs to exhibit responsible leadership in the face of the horrific tragedy that really was a watershed moment for America,” Crump said per NBC. He also publicly stated that the settlement was the largest amount reached before a civil rights wrongful death lawsuit.

Last July, the Floyd family filed a civil rights lawsuit against the City of Minneapolis and the four officers involved in the arrest that took place before his death. The suit argued that the officers used deadly force in non-deadly circumstances. It also stated that the officers had violated his rights and did not fire those who violated department policies. 

The settlement includes a $500,000 contribution from Floyd’s family to the community at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue. The area is currently referred to as George Floyd Square.