Judge Peter Cahill has broken his four-year silence on the Derek Chauvin trial, admitting he entered the proceedings with a “pro-police bias.” The judge criticized Minneapolis City Council members, acknowledged the immense political pressure surrounding the case. Did Chauvin receive a fair and impartial trial?
Judge’s Surprising Admissions Challenge Trial Integrity
Retired Judge Peter Cahill has made headlines with his first interview since presiding over Derek Chauvin’s murder trial, acknowledging he entered the proceedings with a “pro-police bias” he had to consciously set aside. The stunning admission comes four years after Chauvin was convicted in the death of George Floyd, a case that sparked nationwide protests and calls for police reform.
Cahill didn’t mince words when criticizing Minneapolis officials, stating, “It did not help that people were saying ‘defund the police’ — all these idiots on the Minneapolis City Council.” His frustration extended to the council’s announcement of a $27 million settlement with Floyd’s family during jury selection, which complicated the trial proceedings.
BREAKING: Retired Judge Peter Cahill criticizes 'defund the police' movement for complicating Derek Chauvin trial, NY Post reports. pic.twitter.com/3xuKSx81X3
— Resist the Mainstream (@ResisttheMS) May 25, 2025
Political Interference and Public Pressure
The judge expressed particular concern about politicians making public statements during the trial, including former President Joe Biden and Representative Maxine Waters. These comments created additional pressure on a judicial process already under intense scrutiny from media and the public.
Cahill defended his decision to broadcast the trial live, citing both COVID-19 restrictions and constitutional requirements for public access. The trial became one of the most watched in history, with over 23 million viewers tuning in for the verdict announcement.
Derek Chauvin did NOT get a fair trial.
He was a sacrifice to the BLM Gods.
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) May 14, 2025
Personal Toll and Lasting Impact
The judge revealed the personal cost of presiding over such a high-profile case, including receiving hate mail and threats that necessitated security protection. After the trial, Cahill grew a beard and changed his appearance to avoid being recognized in public.
Despite criticisms from both political sides, Cahill defended the jury’s verdict, emphasizing their diverse backgrounds and thoughtful deliberation based solely on evidence. He expressed concern about growing attacks on the justice system and diminishing trust in judicial processes from both left-wing and right-wing extremists.
Derek Chauvin remains incarcerated, serving a 22.5-year sentence for Floyd’s murder and for violating his civil rights. Cahill has since retired from the bench and donated trial-related items to the Minnesota Historical Society, marking the end of his involvement in a case that continues to shape American conversations about race, policing, and justice.