Tuo Thao’s Faith Stands Firm During Unjust Sentencing over George Floyd

Too often, there are examples of men failing to stand firm in face of difficult circumstance. They refuse to defend their very words or actions upon pushback. This occurs with both secular figures and Christians, who bend the knee to the cancel culture rather than affirm any sort of convictions.

Probably the most emasculating case this year is that of Anthony Bass, the Toronto Blue Jays Pitcher who shared a post advocating for Christian boycotts of Target and Bud Light. Bass later apologized for the post and submitted himself to the Blue Jays gay resources to “reeducate” himself. He also met with gay activists as part of his capitulation. Even after groveling before Sodom, the Blue Jays released Bass on June 15^th. All that prostrating and he deservedly became a free agent in the end, denoting the futility of bowing to Satan.

Where there are disappointments, it becomes all the more necessary to highlight the men who stand firm in the faith against the world. Enter Tuo Thao, a former Minneapolis police officer who was ensnared in the overdose or excited delirium of St. George Floyd. The martyrdom of George Floyd caused an eruption of racial idolatry, violence, and strife, further eroding both the safety of America’s cities and the ability of the courts to render justice. Derek Chauvin was wrongfully convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter for using an official restraint technique during an arrest.

Because Tuo Thao was on the scene, he too became caught up on charges. Rather than face a “jury of his peers,” like Derek Chauvin or as he did in federal court, Thao opted for a trial by judge—the same judge who presided over Chauvin’s trial. In May, Judge Peter Cahill wrongfully convicted Thao of aiding and abetting second degree manslaughter. In August, Cahill sentenced Thao to four years and nine months, less time served, to be served concurrently with his federal sentence, which was higher than what the prosecutors sought.

In the face of judgment, Thao stood his ground before the crooked judge and gave an account of his testimony. He alludes to Luke 21:12, in stating that he will give his testimony before the government before recounting his own experience. In the face of the false narrative, Thao rediscovered his faith while in prison on June 15, 2020, after having been a nominal Christian. He testified that God used the book of Job, answering a silent prayer in a matter of minutes, bringing him to repentance. He explains the concept of repentance and being born in the spirit before the court. Throughout the account, Thao cites numerous passages on the prophecies of Jesus, the ministry of Christ. He even speaks about the trial of Christ and the parable of the parable of the unrighteous judge in Luke 18. The depths of Scripture he utilizes in this testimony demonstrate genuine repentance, and not some trivial acknowledgement of a higher power.

Towards the end, Thao maintains his innocence of the crimes of which Cahill convicted him.

Scripture tells us that it is not good to go against your conscience. And despite what this court has ruled, I know we cannot hide our thoughts or intent from God. For we must give an account on the day we appear before God. Therefore, I must obey, to hold on to the truth that I did not commit these crimes. My conscience is clear. I would not be a Judas nor join a mob in self-preservation or betray my God nor the true faithful countryman who founded this country under the fear and majesty of God.

He then offers encouragement for those suffering under persecution before speaking to the subject of hell. Concluding that he did not speak to offend the judge or the court, he then offers to pray for those in the court, including the judge.

Judge Cahill would go on to issue the sentence, complaining that “after three years of reflection, I was hoping for a little more remorse, regret, acknowledgement of some responsibility, and less preaching.” The world might view these sentiments as “preachy” or contend that the faithful believer is ungodly. Commenters grumbled against the lack of remorse over George Floyd. Despite the possible incompetence of Chauvin, George Floyd was the only man responsible for the death of George Floyd. And Tuo Thao demonstrated true conviction while facing genuine persecution that is often deficient within the church. He gave an account of his testimony and provided a 23-minute gospel presentation during a court proceeding.

Believers will be brought before magistrates and judges, often on bogus charges, and Scripture both warns and provides guidance on how to engage this scenario should this hour ever come. Justice in America is dead, and the right to an impartial trial is no longer guaranteed, especially in cases of racial or political stakes. Doubtless, Thao opted for a trial by judge because he could not otherwise receive a fair trial by Minneapolis jurors yet was still convicted.

Let Tuo Thao serve as an example to follow. He did not concede to the mob. He did not compromise. He stood firm and gave his gospel testimony before the court and the world.