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DC police prepare for unrest ahead of Derek Chauvin verdict
DC police are preparing for demonstrations - and potential unrest - as the Derek Chauvin trial reaches its conclusion.
WASHINGTON - The District is bracing for protests as the conclusion of the trial of Derek Chauvin nears.
Chauvin is on trial for the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis last year, an event that triggered protests against police in cities across the country – including the nation’s capital.
READ MORE: Testimony complete in Derek Chauvin trial, closing arguments set for Monday
Floyd’s death – and the ensuing protests – prompted city governments to reconsider how police forces were managed, leading many to call for defunding departments altogether.
READ MORE: Daunte Wright's funeral to be held April 22 in Minneapolis
Similar events in recent weeks – including the shooting death of Daunte Wright in the Minneapolis suburb of Brooklyn Center – have revealed that the wounds of last summer have not healed altogether.
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In preparation for possible protests, the District is canceling time-off requests for all D.C. police and civil disturbance units.
In addition, officers will be expected to work 12-hour shifts, and National Guard will be on hand to support local law enforcement.
They will reportedly be mobilized starting Monday.