Cities across America brace for Derek Chauvin trial verdict

The shockwaves of the Derek Chauvin case have emanated out from Minneapolis, reaching nearly every corner of the United States. It's hard to find anyone who does not know his name, or the name of the man he is accused of murdering, George Floyd.

Now, with the trial coming to a close, law enforcement from Los Angeles to New York are bracing themselves for the chaos that will likely ensue.

Riots have broken out in multiple cities this week after the killings of 20-year-old Daunte Wright and 13-year-old Adam Toledo by police. The former occurred just miles from the courthouse where the Chauvin trial is taking place.

According to CNN Minneapolis Superintendent Ed Graf stated that "all students will do distance learning from Wednesday through the end of the week. Athletic events and before and after school childcare will not take place." He went on to say that "The racism and violence that has been highlighted in these tragic incidents may be widely discussed among some students in our schools".

In downtown Minneapolis, it was reported that razor wire has been installed around police buildings, and National Guard troops have been deployed.

CNN reports that in other cities, police presence is being ramped up as well, with coordinated efforts being orchestrated to quell violent protest, should it occur.

Closing arguments in the Chauvin trial will be delivered on Monday.