Former cop, Derek Chauvin, could still receive more than $1 million in taxpayer funds for his pension during his retirement even if he is found guilty of killing George Floyd, reports said. 

According to a report by CNN, the ex-cop-who has been the subject of national fury since the incident last month, would still benefit from a pension partially funded by taxpayers. State laws dictate that the government is allowed to forfeit benefits for employees who are convicted of felony crimes. However, Minnesota does not uphold this law. 

The Minnesota Public employees Retirement Association confirmed the ex-police officer would be eligible to file for his pension, but they refused to provide specific details, including the amount he would receive. The officials also said employees who have been terminated voluntarily could receive their benefits, but the felons could decide to forfeit it. Doing so would allow them to refund all their contributions during their years of employment instead.

An analysis conducted by CNN claims Chauvin would receive $50,000 a year if he filed for his pension at age 55. The benefits could reach $1.5 million or more over a period of three decades. 

Read also: Judge Sets Derek Chauvin's Conditional Bail at $1.25 Million in First Court Appearance

The former police officer previously attended the initial hearing for the murder of an African-American victim, George Floyd. While reports claim he did not object to the bail request, new information claims the ex-officer tried to reach a plea deal before his arrest. 

In an article by Fox 9, it was revealed Chauvin tried to negotiate a possible plea deal with federal and state prosecutors. A source familiar with the talks claimed the plea deal would have covered state murder charges and federal civil rights complaints filed against the former officer. 

The intense negotiations between both parties delayed a May 28 press conference by two hours. However, the plea deal ultimately fell through, but officials did not reveal the reason why. Details about the offer were also withheld. 

The scuttled negotiations led to Chauvin's arrest a day later where he was charged with third-degree murder. By June 3, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison was charged with second-degree murder. 

Read also: George Floyd's Brother Testifies in Court, Believes Chauvin's Action were 'Personal and Premeditated'

Members of the Minneapolis Police Department addressed the crime in an open letter where they spoke out against former colleague, Chauvin. In the letter, fourteen MPD officers said they were ready to embrace change, including reforming policing. Many who signed the letter held ranks of lieutenant or sergeant. 

"There were many more willing to sign, but the group opted to showcase people from across the PD as well as male/female, black/white, straight/gay, leader/frontline, etc. Internally, this is sending a message" said Paul Omodt, a spokesperson for the officers involved in drafting the open letter. 

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