Kellie May Xiong Chauvin, born in 1974, is a Hmong American who gained public attention as the ex-wife of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer convicted for the murder of George Floyd. Her life story is one of resilience, personal reinvention, and unexpected public scrutiny.
Early Life and Background
Born in Laos, Kellie Chauvin and her family fled the country due to the turmoil following the Vietnam War. They spent time in a refugee camp in Thailand before immigrating to the United States, settling in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. As a teenager, Kellie faced challenges adapting to a new culture and environment. At the age of 17, she entered into an arranged marriage, which she later described as abusive. After ten years, she made the courageous decision to leave the marriage, seeking a better life for herself and her two children.
Career and Personal Achievements
Following her divorce, Kellie pursued a career in the medical field, working as a radiology technician. Her dedication and hard work led her to further her education at Kaplan University, where she studied residential real estate. Transitioning into the real estate industry, she became a realtor with Re/Max Results, showcasing her versatility and determination.
In 2018, Kellie achieved a personal milestone by winning the Mrs. Minnesota beauty pageant. This accomplishment was particularly significant given her earlier struggles, symbolizing her resilience and commitment to personal growth.
Marriage to Derek Chauvin
Kellie met Derek Chauvin in 2010 while working at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, where he brought in a suspect for a health check prior to an arrest. Their relationship progressed, leading to marriage later that year. During their union, Kellie often spoke of Derek in positive terms, describing him as a supportive partner. However, their relationship remained largely private, with limited public insight into their personal lives.
Divorce Proceedings
The tragic death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, and the subsequent arrest of Derek Chauvin, brought unprecedented attention to the Chauvin family. Amid the public outcry and legal proceedings, Kellie filed for divorce on May 28, 2020, just days after the incident. In her petition, she sought the dissolution of their marriage and requested to change her last name. The divorce was finalized in February 2021.
Legal Issues
In July 2020, both Kellie and Derek Chauvin were charged with multiple counts of tax evasion. The charges stemmed from allegations of underreporting more than $464,000 in income over several years, resulting in unpaid taxes amounting to nearly $38,000. Kellie pleaded guilty to the charges and, in May 2023, was sentenced to 20 days in jail and three years of probation. She was also ordered to pay restitution for the unpaid taxes.
Life After Divorce
Following her divorce and legal challenges, Kellie Chauvin has maintained a low public profile. Details about her current endeavors and whereabouts are scarce, as she appears to prioritize privacy and personal healing. Her journey reflects a complex narrative of overcoming personal adversity, facing public scrutiny, and navigating the repercussions of her associations.