Man pleads guilty to killing Minnesota House Speaker and her husband
Vance Boelter, 58, pleaded guilty to the murder of Minnesota Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, after impersonating a police officer. He agreed to two consecutive life terms plus 40 years in exchange for federal prosecutors not seeking the death penalty.
Guilty plea in high-profile murder case
A Minnesota man, Vance Boelter, 58, pleaded guilty on Thursday to the murder of state House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark. Boelter, who disguised himself as a police officer, knocked on the door of their home and shot them. In a deal with federal prosecutors, he will serve two consecutive life sentences plus 40 years, avoiding the death penalty. However, the agreement does not apply to state charges.
Concerns over political violence
U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen called political violence a "scourge" and warned that the Justice Department will seek the longest possible sentences for such crimes. Sobs were heard in the courtroom as family members of the Hortmans attended. Boelter also targeted Democratic state Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, both of whom were injured in the attack. The slayings have heightened concerns about political violence targeting officials across the United States.
Details of the attacks
Boelter wore a tactical uniform and drove a police-style SUV with flashing lights. He approached the homes of several legislators, knocking on one door where no one answered and being scared off at another by a real police officer who mistook him for a colleague. A list with the names of 45 other state officials and legislators was later found in his vehicle.
Arrest
The attacks triggered the largest police manhunt in state history. Boelter was apprehended near his home in Green Isle, about an hour's drive from Minneapolis, the day after the shootings.
