English
“compiled:Sophia Bennett”
In the Minnesota political assassination case, the man accused of killing top Democratic lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband is expected to plead not guilty on Thursday.
Federal attorneys indicted 58-year-old Vance Boelter on July 15. The charges include six counts: murder, stalking, and firearms violations. If convicted, Boelter could face the federal death penalty. Prosecutors said that decision will come later.
Boelter’s federal defender, Manny Atwal, confirmed the planned not guilty plea. She has not yet revealed any defense strategy.
The arraignment will take place before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dulce Foster in Minneapolis. The hearing will also serve as a case management session. Judge Foster plans to announce deadlines, including a possible trial date.
Prosecutors are seeking to label the Minnesota political assassination case as “complex.” That would remove typical speedy trial requirements. Both sides will need months to review extensive evidence.
“This is the largest manhunt in Minnesota’s history,” prosecutors said. “The investigation spans more than a dozen law enforcement agencies.”
The evidence includes:
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Thousands of hours of video
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Tens of thousands of subpoena responses
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Digital data from seized devices
On June 14, officials say Boelter disguised himself as a police officer and used a fake squad car. He first went to the Hoffmans’ home in Champlin, Minnesota. There, he shot Sen. John Hoffman nine times and his wife Yvette eight times. Both survived.
He later traveled to Brooklyn Park and shot Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. Both died. Their dog was critically injured and had to be euthanized.
Boelter surrendered the next evening.
Authorities have yet to confirm a clear motive. Prosecutors released a letter Boelter allegedly wrote to FBI Director Kash Patel, in which he confessed to the shootings. Still, the letter offers no clear reason for his actions.
Boelter’s messages to The New York Times suggest religious motives, referring to “loving one’s neighbor.” He denied acting out of anti-abortion views or loyalty to Donald Trump.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson called the killings a “political assassination,” though he admitted the motive remains unclear.
Boelter remains in custody as the case moves through federal court.
