Ex-officer Chauvin won't testify in George Floyd trial, invokes Fifth Amendment

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin said Thursday he will not testify in the case in which he's charged in connection with the death of George Floyd, bringing an end to his defense team's arguments.

Chauvin invoked his Fifth Amendment right not to take the stand, ending months of speculation about whether he's speak publicly for the first time about Floyd's death in May 2020 while in police custody. 

Chauvin faces murder and manslaughter charges in connection with the death. He knelt on Floyd's neck for nine minutes and 29 seconds during the arrest. The incident was recorded in a bystander video and sparked months of international protest about police brutality. 

"Is this your decision not to testify?"Judge Peter Cahill asked Chauvin on Thursday.

Chauvin replied: "It is, your honor." 

Some prosecution rebuttal testimony is expected to follow. Closing arguments are set for Monday, after which the jury will begin deliberating, according to the Associated Press.