Gov. Walz Activates National Guard After Release Of Derek Chauvin

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Following the release of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin from prison, Gov. Tim Walz Wednesday activated the Minnesota National Guard to assist local law enforcement in the Twin Cities metro area.

"Out of an abundance of caution for the safety of Minnesotans, we have asked the Minnesota National Guard to prepare to assist in keeping the peace," the governor said.

"The mobilization follows a request made by the City of Minneapolis in light of recent public safety concerns regarding Derek Chauvin posting bond. The Minnesota National Guard is currently mobilizing 100 National Guard soldiers as well as providing equipment and facilities needed to support public safety services."

Additionally, the Minnesota State Patrol has mobilized 100 state troopers and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has mobilized 75 conservation officers to aide local law enforcement, according to a news release.

Chauvin was been released from the state correctional facility in Oak Park Heights Wednesday after posting $1 million in bond.

A court document shows that Chauvin used the Allegheny Casualty Company to secure money for bail.

Chauvin was arrested by agents from the state's Bureau of Criminal Apprehension May 29. He was charged with third-degree murder, second-degree manslaughter, and second-degree unintentional murder while committing a felony in the death of George Floyd.

Since May 31, Chauvin has been held on $1.25 million bail at an east metro prison without conditions and $1 million bail with conditions. Conditions include not working in law enforcement, not possessing weapons, and having no contact with Floyd's family, Patch previously reported.