Federal prosecutors declared on Wednesday that they have negotiated a plea deal with Vance Boelter, accused of murdering a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband in a politically motivated attack last year. The plea ensures that Boelter will not face the death penalty.
The Justice Department communicated to the judge via a letter, mentioning a proposed plea agreement and requesting a hearing for Boelter to change his not guilty plea. Details of the agreement remain undisclosed in the public filing. Boelter, charged in both federal and state courts, allegedly killed Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and injured State Senator John A. Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.
Boelter’s lawyers and the Justice Department did not comment promptly on the development. Judge John R. Tunheim scheduled the plea change hearing for Thursday morning. Prosecutors opted not to pursue the death penalty after assessing that underlying stalking charges may not qualify Boelter for capital punishment.
Federal laws allow seeking the death penalty with violent crimes leading to murder. However, stalking may not align with this under current court precedent. Justice Department spokeswoman Emily Covington expressed the department’s dedication to holding Boelter accountable.
While Minnesota does not impose the death penalty on state crimes, federal prosecutors initially kept open the option for capital punishment. It remains uncertain how this federal plea deal will influence state court proceedings. Boelter reportedly attacked Minnesota legislators’ homes in disguise as a police officer, prompting a manhunt and raising alarms over political violence in the U.S.
Authorities found documents listing numerous political figures inside Boelter’s SUV, which was altered to mimic a police vehicle. Melissa Hortman, a former speaker of the Minnesota House, significantly contributed to legislative advancements like expanded abortion rights and legalized recreational marijuana. Her husband, Mark, was known for his humor and passion for sports.
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